Transportation Manager Jobs

Are you a strong organiser with a passion for keeping logistics operations running smoothly?

Transport Manager jobs offer an exciting and fast-paced career within the distribution and supply chain sector, where you’ll play a crucial role in ensuring goods are delivered safely, efficiently, and on time.

At Stafffinders, we work with transport and logistics companies across the UK to recruit experienced and dedicated Transport Managers for permanent, temporary, and contract roles. Whether you’re stepping up into management or looking for your next leadership challenge, we’ll help you find a role that matches your experience, qualifications, and career goals.

What Does a Transport Manager Do?

A Transport Manager oversees the daily operations of goods delivery and transport logistics, ensuring everything runs to schedule and meets legal and safety requirements. You’ll be responsible for planning routes, managing drivers, monitoring vehicle usage, and ensuring operations comply with all UK and EU regulations. Typical responsibilities include:

• Planning efficient delivery routes and driver schedules.

• Monitoring driver hours, vehicle usage, and maintenance compliance.

• Managing budgets and ensuring cost-effective logistics operations.

• Ensuring all transport activities adhere to UK and EU transport laws.

• Overseeing safety checks, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance.

• Liaising with customers, drivers, warehouse teams, and government agencies.

• Responding quickly to operational issues and minimising disruptions.

• Managing customs, traffic, and food safety requirements where applicable.

You’ll split your time between office-based management, depot visits, and on-site vehicle inspections, often working flexible hours, including weekends or shifts, to support 24-hour operations.

Skills and Qualities of a Successful Transport Manager

To succeed as a Transport Manager, you’ll need a blend of leadership, organisation, and problem-solving skills. This is a hands-on role that requires the ability to balance compliance, cost control, and customer satisfaction in a busy logistics environment. Key skills and attributes include:

• Excellent planning, scheduling, and organisational abilities.

• Strong numerical skills for budgeting and performance tracking.

• Analytical thinking and logical problem-solving.

• The ability to make quick, effective decisions under pressure.

• Great communication skills for working with drivers, clients, and officials.

• A proactive, flexible approach and willingness to work in varied environments.

• IT proficiency for managing transport management systems (TMS).

A Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) issued by the Department for Transport (or Department of the Environment in Northern Ireland) is essential to work as a Transport Manager in the UK.

How to Become a Transport Manager

Most Transport Managers progress into the role after gaining experience in logistics, haulage, or warehouse operations. Employers typically look for candidates with strong industry knowledge and a proven ability to manage teams and ensure compliance.

Qualifications in Logistics and Transport Management, Supply Chain Management, or Business Administration can also be advantageous, along with membership or accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).

Those starting out can work towards earning their CPC qualification through professional training, which demonstrates your competence in transport legislation, financial management, and operational best practice.

Career Opportunities and Progression

Transport Managers are in high demand across the UK, with opportunities in:

• Road haulage and freight companies

• Distribution and warehouse operations

• Retail and e-commerce logistics

• Public sector and local authorities

With experience, you can progress to senior roles such as Regional Transport Manager, Operations Manager, or Head of Logistics, overseeing multiple depots or nationwide transport networks.

If you’re ready to take charge of logistics operations and lead teams that keep the supply chain moving, explore our latest Transport Manager jobs across the UK today.

At Stafffinders, we’ll help you find your next role in the fast-growing distribution and supply chain industry where every journey counts.