Role Overview The Transport Manager will hold the responsibility for all road transport operations, ensuring full compliance with VOSA/DVSA regulations, efficient fleet management, and operational excellence. This pivotal role requires a strategic leader who can manage a team of drivers and staff, optimize route planning, and maintain the company's Operators Licence. Key Responsibilities 1. Compliance and Legislation Operators Licence (O Licence) Management: Be fully responsible for holding or assisting in the management of the company’s Operator’s Licence, ensuring all legal and statutory obligations are met. Driver & Vehicle Compliance: Proactively manage and monitor driver hours, Tachograph data, and Working Time Directive (WTD) adherence to ensure 100% compliance. Maintenance & Safety: Oversee the scheduling and management of all vehicle maintenance, inspections (daily checks, safety inspections, MOTs), and defect reporting to ensure the entire fleet is roadworthy and compliant. 2. Leadership and Team Management Driver Management: Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of HGV and LGV drivers, including recruitment, training, performance reviews, and disciplinary procedures. Staff Coordination: Work closely with the planning, warehousing, and sales teams to ensure efficient service delivery. Health & Safety: Ensure the transport operation adheres to the highest standards of Health & Safety, conducting risk assessments and accident investigations when necessary. 3. Operational Efficiency Route Planning and Optimisation: Oversee the daily traffic planning function, focusing on maximizing vehicle utilization, minimizing mileage, and ensuring timely deliveries/collections (OTIF - On Time, In Full). Budget Control: Manage the transport department budget, controlling costs related to fuel, maintenance, tolls, and labour. System Utilisation: Utilize Transport Management Systems (TMS), telematics, and route planning software effectively to drive efficiency. Essential Qualifications and Skills Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC): MUST hold a valid National (and ideally International) CPC qualification. Experience: Proven, substantial experience (5 years preferred) in transport operations management, specifically within the road haulage or logistics industry. Leadership: Strong leadership, decision-making, and people management skills, with the ability to manage conflict and motivate staff. Legislation Knowledge: In-depth, up-to-date knowledge of UK and EU transport legislation, including HGV vehicle weight restrictions, licensing, and compliance requirements. IT Proficiency: Excellent IT skills, including familiarity with TMS software, Microsoft Office Suite, and data analysis. Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for dealing with drivers, customers, and senior management. Why Work Through ARC Recruitment? ARC Recruitment is dedicated to placing senior logistics professionals in roles where they can truly excel and build a long-term career. Permanent Focus: We prioritize permanent placement, ensuring you move into a stable role that offers career growth and long-term security, not just temporary contracts. Exclusive Access: We work with a select client base in the Norwich area, giving you access to opportunities that are often unadvertised or exclusive to our network. Confidentiality: As your recruiter, Michael provides a confidential and professional service, managing the introduction process efficiently and discreetly. Career Partnership: We offer support beyond placement, ensuring the role aligns with your strategic career goals and offering advice on market trends and salary negotiations.