Depot Manager - Pallet Distribution – Warrington
Location: Warrington
Salary: up to £65,000 + Benefits
Are you an experienced transport leader ready to take ownership of a busy depot operation and drive the next phase of growth?
We are recruiting for a Depot Manager to lead our clients busy Warrington site, with full responsibility for the safe, efficient and compliant running of both transport and warehouse operations. This is a senior leadership role with real influence across the wider business.
The depot already has strong operational foundations, clear structure and robust processes in place. We are now looking for a high-calibre leader who can build on that platform, drive performance, develop the team and take the operation to the next level.
This role also carries full P&L responsibility, making it an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded leader who can balance operational excellence with financial performance.
We’re ideally looking for someone from a pallet network or pallet distribution background, but we will also consider strong candidates from a broader UK haulage / general transport environment.
The Role
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will lead all depot activity, ensuring operational excellence, customer satisfaction, legal compliance and strong financial control.
You’ll be responsible for:
* Full leadership of the day-to-day transport and warehouse operation
* Full depot P&L ownership, including budgets, cost control and profitability
* Managing and developing a team of senior leaders across transport, warehouse, compliance and driver training
* Driving a positive health & safety culture across the depot
* Ensuring full compliance with Operator Licence requirements, driver hours and Working Time Directive regulations
* Overseeing fleet operations including HGVs, trailers and associated equipment
* Managing maintenance schedules, repairs and fleet costs
* Investigating accidents, incidents and near misses, driving corrective actions
* Managing weekly budgets and operational performance
* Using transport systems and MI to monitor efficiency and improve service
* Building strong relationships with customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders
* Playing a key role within the Senior Management Team
* Identifying opportunities for continuous improvement, cost savings and service enhancements
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have:
* Proven experience in a Depot Manager / Transport Manager leadership role
* Full P&L / budget responsibility experience
* Strong knowledge of UK transport compliance and fleet legislation
* Experience managing HGV fleets and multi-functional depot teams
* Excellent people management and leadership skills
* A track record of improving performance and driving operational change
* Strong commercial awareness and financial acumen
* Confidence using transport systems and Microsoft Office
* A proactive, hands-on leadership style
Essential Requirements
* Transport Manager CPC qualification
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior Transport / Depot Management role
* Strong understanding of transport compliance and operational best practice
Why Apply?
* Senior leadership opportunity with real autonomy
* Well-established operation with solid foundations
* Genuine opportunity to make an impact and shape future growth
* Full ownership and accountability for depot performance
* Supportive leadership team
If you’re an experienced transport professional looking for your next challenge, we’d love to hear from you.
Start People are the acting agency working on this assignment