Assistant Operations Manager – Coach Operations
Location: Acre Road Depot (Reading)
Full-Time | Monday – Friday, 08:00 – 17:00
Horseman Coaches / Stewarts Coaches are two of the most respected and successful independent coach operators in the UK. With a reputation for excellence, safety, and customer service, we provide high-quality transport solutions across the South East.
We are now looking for a proactive and motivated Assistant Operations Manager to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with operational transport experience who is looking to take the next step in their career – with exposure to both operations and the commercial side of the business.
The Role
As Assistant Operations Manager, you will support the Operations Manager in the day-to-day running of our services, helping to ensure that every journey is safe, punctual, and delivered to the highest standards. You will act as a key link between drivers, controllers, customers, and senior management – and deputise for the Operations Manager when required.
Alongside operational duties, you will play a part in the commercial success of the depot – monitoring costs, supporting contract delivery, and contributing ideas to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Management
* Assist with daily service delivery, driver allocation, and rota management.
* Support Duty Controllers and act as first point of escalation for operational issues.
* Build strong working relationships with drivers and operational staff.
* Monitor driver compliance, including working time, CPC training, and tachograph analysis.
* Support with investigations into incidents, accidents, and complaints.
* Help manage staff engagement activities, inductions, and return-to-work interviews.
* Deputise for the Operations Manager in their absence.
Commercial Support
* Monitor fuel usage, overtime, and other variable costs to help control expenditure.
* Assist in ensuring contracts are delivered to agreed service levels and KPIs.
* Support the preparation of performance and cost reports for management review.
* Liaise with customers when required to help maintain strong relationships.
* Contribute to identifying opportunities for operational efficiency and service improvements.
* Support the delivery of tenders, bids, or new service launches when required.
What We're Looking For
* Previous experience in a transport operations role (e.g., Duty Controller, Allocator, Supervisor).
* Good understanding of driver compliance and DVSA requirements.
* Strong numeracy and commercial awareness with an eye for efficiency.
* Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
* Calm under pressure, with a hands-on and proactive approach.
* Strong IT skills, including Excel and operations software.
* Transport Manager CPC (National Passenger Transport) – desirable (or willingness to work towards).
What We Offer
Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
Opportunity to deputise for the Operations Manager and gain senior-level exposure
Ongoing training and career development, including CPC qualification support
Exposure to the commercial side of a respected and forward-thinking coach operator
Be part of a strong, supportive, and professional team
If you're an experienced transport professional looking for the next step in your career – with the chance to build both your operational and commercial management skills – we'd love to hear from you.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: Up to £47,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person