We have a fantastic opportunity for a Commercial General Manager to lead our established coach operation based on the outskirts of York.
Reporting to the Coaching Director, this senior leadership role holds overall accountability for the operational performance, commercial growth, and strategic direction of the business. You will oversee the day-to-day running of the operation while driving long‑term growth and profitability.
With a fleet of over 160 vehicles, the operation delivers a diverse range of services, including commercial contracts, private hire, and bespoke travel solutions. This role requires a commercially astute, hands‑on leader with strong people management capability and the ability to drive high standards across multiple functions.
You will play a key role in shaping the future of the operation, identifying new opportunities, strengthening performance, and ensuring a consistently high‑quality service for customers.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Management
* Provide strategic and operational leadership across all departments, including Operations, Maintenance, Sales, Accounts, and Compliance.
* Oversee a large and diverse workforce, ensuring effective communication, motivation, and performance management.
Commercial Management
* Drive growth of the private hire and contract services, maintaining strong client relationships and identifying new business opportunities.
* Negotiate and manage key commercial contracts to ensure profitability and long‑term sustainability.
Operational Oversight
* Ensure the efficient and safe daily operation of a 160‑vehicle fleet.
* Oversee compliance with all relevant legislation, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
Financial Performance
* Work closely with the Accounts department to manage budgets, monitor financial performance, and deliver strong commercial results.
* Identify areas for efficiency improvement and cost control without compromising service quality.
Strategic Development
* Support the long‑term business plan through innovation, market awareness, and process improvement.
* Represent the company externally, promoting a positive and professional image at all times.
Skills/Experience
Essential
* Proven experience in a senior commercial or operational management role.
* Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to oversee multiple departments.
* Excellent commercial awareness and financial acumen.
* Ability to manage complex logistics and operations in a time‑sensitive environment.
* Strong communication and negotiation skills.
* Flexibility to work across a 7‑day operation as required.
Desirable
* Background or experience in the coach, transport, or logistics industry.
* Knowledge of transport compliance and safety legislation (CPC qualification advantageous).
Salary
£60‑£70,000 plus annual bonus
Benefits
* Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support.
* We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc.
* Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass.
* Supportive working environment with scope for professional development.
Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.
Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.
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