Transport Operations Manager

Do you want to be a valued part of the critical infrastructure that serves communities across Europe and beyond? Are you looking for a position in which you can set direction and help shape our company? If so, then you could be the newest addition to our team as Transport Operations Manager.

Be part of the movement - and play your part.   

About the role  

As Transport Operations Manager, you’ll take full responsibility for the day-to-day management, performance and development of our Kettering transport operation. You’ll lead the Palletline operation, DFDS-owned fleet and third-party transport partners, ensuring we deliver a safe, compliant, efficient and customer-focused service.

Working closely with the Killingholme Transport team, you’ll also play a key role in maximising fleet utilisation across the UK. From identifying backload opportunities and reducing empty running to improving route planning and operational efficiency, you’ll be responsible for finding practical solutions that improve both service and commercial performance.

You will be responsible for

Lead and oversee the daily transport operation at Kettering, ensuring safe, compliant and efficient delivery of services.

Managing DFDS-owned vehicles and third-party hauliers, monitoring performance, costs, service levels and compliance.

Working closely with the Palletline network and operational partners to maintain service standards and identify opportunities for improvement.

Collaborating with the Killingholme Transport team to plan backloads, reduce empty mileage and maximise vehicle utilisation across the UK.

Monitoring operational KPIs, costs and profitability, using performance data to identify improvements and support the continued growth of the transport operation.

About you 

You’ll be an experienced transport professional with a strong background in transport operations management, fleet planning and utilisation. You’ll have a good understanding of UK transport legislation and compliance, alongside experience managing subcontractors, third-party transport providers and, ideally, pallet network operations such as Palletline. Commercially aware and confident working with operational data, you’ll be able to identify opportunities to improve performance, control costs and maximise fleet efficiency.

You’ll be a confident communicator and strong relationship builder, with the ability to manage stakeholders across multiple locations and departments. Organised, analytical and solutions-focused, you’ll be comfortable making decisions in a fast-paced environment and finding practical ways to improve the operation. A National CPC qualification is essential, with experience of domestic transport planning, backloads and knowledge of the Humberside, Midlands or Felixstowe transport markets being desirable.

We think the strongest teams are built on diversity and inclusivity. Contrasting opinions, varied skills and strong characters bring out the best in us all. And we cannot wait for you to join.   

Working at DFDS  

Join the movement and grow with us.  

Now about what we can give you. You’ll be able to access some fantastic benefits such as:

Life assurance cover

Contributory company pension scheme

Holiday Purchase Scheme

Free ferry travel for up to 4 guests between Dover and Calais / Newcastle and Amsterdam with no limit on trips

Full employee assistance programme including:

Proactive financial, emotional, mental, and physical health care support including face to face counselling, fast 24/7 access to a GP, a second medical opinion and legal support for colleagues and their family.

Huge range of retail discounts from high street and online retailers

Cashback on health care including dental, optical, physiotherapy, prescriptions, specialist consultations and much more.

Access to myStrength, our Wellbeing platform, which has plenty of content to support and improve your mental wellness needs.

Access to mental health first aid and opportunity to join support webinars with a focus on all areas of positive wellbeing.

While you’re with us, we want you to develop. At DFDS, we believe that development happens first and foremost through activities in the workplace. We will also offer training courses that can support you in your role, if needed.   

Are we a match? Then what are you waiting for? Apply Now.   

If you think your personality, skills, experience, and desire match this role, we’d love to hear from you. Please send us your CV as soon as possible, as we’re keen to meet potential candidates on an ongoing basis.   

We look forward to hearing from you.   

This recruitment process is managed by the DFDS Talent Acquisition team. We kindly ask external recruitment agencies to refrain from contacting us regarding this opportunity