We are looking for an experienced Transport Planning Manager to join our client - a global logistics leader – in Manningtree, Essex. This is a key operational role responsible for managing daily transport activities, leading the planning team and driver workforce, and ensuring compliance, efficiency, and outstanding customer service.
The Role:
As Transport Planning Manager, you'll oversee all transport and logistics functions, ensuring effective route planning, cost control, and operational excellence. You will lead a team of drivers, planners and a Driver Fleet Coordinator, while ensuring all activities meet legislative, safety and customer standards.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Manage, lead and develop drivers, transport planners and the Driver Fleet Coordinator
2. Monitor and improve fleet utilisation to maximise efficiency and minimise downtime
3. Meet operational and budgeted targets, driving continuous improvement
4. Support commercial growth through smart cost control and strategic planning
5. Oversee Health and Safety procedures and compliance obligations
6. Participate in compliance, planning and internal review meetings
7. Work with HR to recruit, train and support team development
8. Liaise with the Fleet Manager regarding maintenance schedules and incident reporting
9. Ensure customer satisfaction and adherence to contracted SLAs
10. Support ISO 9001 and 14001 requirements for the Road division
11. Report weekly and monthly operational highlights to senior management
12. Adapt to changing priorities while maintaining productivity and fleet profitability
Skills & Experience:
13. Strong leadership skills with a hands-on management approach
14. Excellent understanding of route planning, compliance and transport regulations
15. Competent in logistics and fleet management systems (TMS), Microsoft Office and Power BI
16. Strong communication, stakeholder management and problem-solving abilities
17. Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret KPIs and drive improvements
18. CPC Transport Manager qualification – essential
19. Experience managing cost efficiency and strategic operational planning
20. Ability to work under pressure and use initiative to resolve issues
21. Automotive industry experience beneficial but not essential
Qualifications:
22. Degree in Logistics, Transport Management or Business Administration – desirable
23. Minimum 2 years logistics or operations management experience within transport/freight
24. Valid UK driving licence
25. Transport Manager CPC
The Ideal Candidate:
You will be an adaptable, proactive leader with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities. You should be confident in decision-making, comfortable working under pressure, and able to maintain strong organisational control across operations and customer service.
What’s On Offer:
26. 25 days holiday, rising to 27 after 5 years’ service (Plus Bank Holidays)
27. Bonus scheme
28. Company car
29. Permanent role with a leading global logistics company
30. Company pension scheme
31. Onsite parking
32. Support from Igloo’s recruitment team during interview process
If this sounds like the opportunity for you, apply now with your CV and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss the next steps!