Transport & Operations Manager
Salary: £45,000 – £50,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Hours: 40 hours per week
Location: Seedy Mill, Lichfield
Travel: Occasional travel to customer sites and other South Staffs Water locations
Aqua Direct, part of South Staffs Water, is seeking an experienced Transport & Operations Manager to lead the end-to-end delivery of our tankered spring and drinking water services. Reporting to the Director, you will manage a large, diverse operational team, coordinate driver and fleet logistics, ensure compliance with all industry and transport regulations, and deliver the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer service.
The Role:
You will oversee a team of Logistics Operatives, Senior Drivers, and 20+ full/part-time, casual, and agency drivers, playing a pivotal role in maintaining operational performance, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and develop operational teams, ensuring high performance, safety, and engagement.
Oversee daily fleet operations, driver scheduling, and 'Just-in-Time' water deliveries.
Ensure compliance with O’ Licence, ADR, BRCGS, DWI, DVSA, and Environment Agency standards.
Manage fleet maintenance, renewal planning, and contractor relationships.
Deliver strong health & safety leadership, acting as the main contact for all H&S matters.
Support South Staffs Water’s ESG and Net Zero commitments.
Maintain robust QA, hygiene, and compliance systems, including sample analysis and audit preparation.
Build and maintain strong customer and supplier relationships, ensuring excellent service and long-term partnerships.
Contribute to budgets, forecasts, and board reporting with a focus on cost control and operational efficiency.
Utilise technology and management systems to optimise logistics and reporting.
What You’ll Need:
Proven leadership experience in logistics, fleet, or transport operations.
Strong people management and conflict resolution skills.
Excellent knowledge of UK transport, health & safety, and water industry regulations.
Financial and operational acumen with a track record in cost control and efficiency.
Ability to work under pressure, solve problems quickly, and make sound decisions.
Customer-focused with strong stakeholder engagement skills.
International CPC for Road Haulage Operations (Essential)
NEBOSH General Certificate (Essential)
ADR/ Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (Desirable)
HACCP Level 3, Fire Marshal, First Aid at Work (Desirable)
What You’ll get in Return:
£45k–£50k salary, depending on experience
Company pension with employer contribution
Company vehicle / car cash alternative
25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays (with holiday buy-back)
Employee Assistance Programme (financial, legal, health & wellbeing support)
Eyecare vouchers (Specsavers)
Staff discounts across selected retailers
REF-(Apply online only)