Transport Operations Manager – Container Logistics

Ready to step into a role where you can genuinely make an impact?

We’re recruiting on behalf of a successful and growing container transport business that is looking for an experienced Transport Operations Manager to lead a busy and fast-moving operation.

This isn’t a role where you’ll simply maintain the status quo. You’ll have the opportunity to influence operational performance, develop a talented team, strengthen customer relationships and play a key role in the continued growth of the business.

If you’re currently managing container transport operations and looking for a position with greater responsibility, autonomy and long-term career prospects, we’d like to hear from you.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll take overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of the transport operation, ensuring customers receive a first-class service while maximising fleet utilisation and operational efficiency.

Working alongside planners, drivers, customers and senior leadership, you’ll be responsible for:

• Leading, motivating and developing a team of Transport Operators.
• Ensuring smooth delivery of container movements through major UK ports including Felixstowe, London Gateway and Southampton.
• Driving operational performance and identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and profitability.
• Managing customer relationships and resolving operational issues quickly and effectively.
• Monitoring fleet activity, driver performance and resource utilisation.
• Reviewing KPIs and operational data to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Managing VBS activity and reducing avoidable costs and delays.
• Supporting compliance with transport legislation and company procedures.
• Acting as the senior point of contact for operational escalations and service issues.
• Working closely with senior management to support business growth and operational excellence.

What We’re Looking For

We’re keen to speak with transport professionals who have a strong background within container haulage and experience leading successful operational teams.

You’ll ideally have:

• Proven experience managing transport operations within the container haulage sector.
• Strong knowledge of UK port operations and Vehicle Booking Systems (VBS).
• Experience leading, coaching and developing transport planning or operations teams.
• Excellent understanding of container transport planning and fleet utilisation.
• Knowledge of Driver Hours Regulations and Working Time Directive requirements.
• Experience using transport management systems, with TOPS experience advantageous.
• Strong commercial awareness and customer focus.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
• The ability to remain calm and effective in a fast-paced operational environment.

What’s On Offer?

• £55,000 – £60,000 basic salary
• Company car
• 23 days holiday rising to 25 days with service
• Additional birthday leave after probation
• Life Assurance
• Company pension scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Health & wellbeing subscription
• Free on-site parking
• Opportunity to join a well-established and growing transport business
• Genuine opportunity to influence and shape operational performance

Why Apply?

This is an opportunity to join a respected container transport operator in a senior leadership role where your experience, ideas and leadership will be valued.

If you’re looking for a role that offers challenge, responsibility and the chance to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

If you have any questions please dont hesitate in contacting Simon Rapley – [email removed]

ARC Recruitment operates in accordance with the Employment Agencies Act 1973, the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations 2003, and all applicable UK employment legislation. We are committed to equal opportunities and comply with the Equality Act 2010 and all relevant data protection laws, including UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Tagged as: Driving