Job Description
Assistant Transport Manager
Shepshed
Up to £45,000
Monday – Friday 08:00 – 18:00
1 in 4 Saturdays
The Opportunity
We are working with a well-established and growing logistics business to recruit an Assistant Transport Manager into a newly created position.
This role has been introduced to support a very hands-on Transport Manager, with the aim of bringing in someone who can take ownership of both the operational and people management side of the function.
This is not a replacement role - it’s a genuine opportunity to step into a position where you can add value, influence the operation, and grow into a more senior role over time.
The Role
This is a hands-on operational leadership role within a general haulage environment, where you will be involved in:
* Daily general haulage transport planning and route optimisation (multi-client, varied loads)
* Managing drivers and day-to-day operational performance
* Monitoring delivery performance, KPIs, and service levels
* Managing vehicle utilisation, backloads, and reducing empty mileage
* Identifying inefficiencies and improving processes across the operation
* Challenging and enhancing existing planning processes
* Acting as a key point of contact between drivers, planning, and management
Alongside this, you will take ownership of the people management side of the role, including:
* Having direct conversations with drivers where standards are not being met
* Managing performance, conduct, and day-to-day behavioural issues
* Addressing discrepancies (fuel usage, vehicle misuse, etc.)
* Supporting disciplinary processes where required
This role requires someone confident enough to have difficult conversations, but with the professionalism to handle them in the right way.
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience in a general haulage transport planning environment is essential
* Background within a traffic office planning multi-client, mixed-load operations
* Someone who has either:
* Already operated at Assistant Transport Manager level, or
* Is operating at Senior Planner / Transport Supervisor level and ready to step up
* Strong understanding of driver management and day-to-day haulage operations
* Experience managing backloads, route optimisation, and vehicle utilisation
* Confidence to challenge, manage, and hold drivers accountable
* Ability to think commercially and improve operational efficiency
* Someone who can “see the bigger picture” and not just follow the plan
* A proactive, hands-on approach
What’s Not Required
CPC is not required
This is not a compliance-heavy role - focus is operational and people management
Why This Role
* Genuine opportunity to step into a leadership position
* Ability to influence and shape the operation
* Work closely with an experienced, hands-on Transport Manager
* Progression potential as the structure evolves
* Stable and growing logistics business
If this sounds like the kind of role you’ve been waiting for - where you can actually make an impact rather than just follow a plan - please apply today!