We are supporting a well‑established road freight organisation in the appointment of an experienced General Manager to lead its UK and European transport operations. This is a senior leadership opportunity for an individual with strong operational expertise and commercial awareness who can take ownership of performance across the business.
The Role
The General Manager will be responsible for overseeing the overall performance of the transport operation, ensuring efficiency, compliance, profitability, and service excellence. You will lead operational teams, manage key customer relationships, and drive strategic improvements across fleet performance and resource management.
This position requires a proactive leader who can balance day‑to‑day operational control with long‑term business development and growth planning.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Oversight
* Direct and manage daily transport operations across domestic and European routes
* Improve fleet deployment, driver management, scheduling, and load optimisation
* Ensure operational processes deliver reliability and high service standards
* Oversee subcontractor performance and third‑party service providers
* Identify opportunities to streamline operations and improve efficiency
Compliance and Safety
* Maintain full compliance with UK Operator Licence obligations and transport legislation
* Ensure adherence to DVSA requirements, tachograph regulations, and working time legislation
* Manage compliance with European transport regulations for cross‑border movements
* Support audit processes and maintain strong health and safety standards
* Promote a culture focused on risk management and safe working practices
* Take accountability for operational financial performance and overall profitability
* Manage budgeting, forecasting, cost monitoring, and performance reporting
* Track key operational metrics including margins, fuel consumption, utilisation, and cost control
* Support pricing strategy, contract negotiation, and commercial review processes
* Drive initiatives that improve efficiency and protect profitability
Customer and Stakeholder Management
* Build and maintain strong relationships with strategic customers
* Respond effectively to service issues and escalations
* Support new business development and contract retention efforts
* Represent the business professionally in client and supplier engagements
Strategic Contribution
* Contribute to the long‑term growth and development of the transport division
* Identify opportunities for operational modernisation and technology improvement
* Support expansion initiatives and potential growth into new markets or service areas
* Monitor industry trends and regulatory developments to ensure business readiness
* Proven leadership experience within haulage, transport, or logistics operations
* Strong knowledge of Operator Licence requirements and transport compliance
* Experience managing operational teams and multi‑functional staff
* Demonstrable P&L responsibility and commercial decision‑making experience
* Familiarity with transport management systems and fleet performance tools
* Exposure to cross‑border freight and European transport operations
* Understanding of customs processes and international trade requirements
* Experience leading change initiatives or operational improvement projects
Personal Attributes
* Strong commercial mindset with operational discipline
* Confident decision‑maker with excellent leadership capability
* Ability to engage effectively with customers, drivers, and senior stakeholders
* Adaptable and resilient in a fast‑moving environment
This is a key leadership role for a professional who is ready to take ownership of a significant transport operation and contribute directly to its performance and growth. Applications are welcomed from individuals who meet the experience criteria and are seeking a senior management opportunity within road freight.
This role is being handled by Sam Hasler, Transport, Logistics & Distribution Specialist at Pearson Whiffin Recruitment
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