Night Transport Shift Manager

W Talent is currently recruiting for an experienced and highly organised Transport Shift Manager to join a busy and fast-paced transport operation.

Reporting directly to the Transport Manager, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of the operation throughout the night shift. Working closely with drivers, planning, fleet and wider support functions, you will help deliver operational KPIs, maintain high service standards and ensure all activity is carried out safely, efficiently and in line with legal and company requirements.

This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone who is confident managing people, vehicles and resources, while remaining calm and solution-focused when dealing with changing priorities and unexpected operational challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Transport Manager in the day-to-day management of the transport operation, helping to deliver agreed KPIs and service standards.
• Plan and coordinate driver and vehicle resources to ensure they are utilised safely, efficiently and cost-effectively.
• Oversee the dispatch and driver debrief processes, ensuring clear communication and consistent operational standards are maintained.
• Lead, support and manage the driver workforce, ensuring all activity is carried out in accordance with legal, company and health & safety requirements.
• Monitor driver performance, addressing issues and identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Promote a positive culture focused on safety, compliance, performance and continuous improvement.
• Ensure employee records remain accurate and up to date, including licences, training and other relevant documentation.
• Carry out and support operational audits, following up on actions and identifying opportunities to improve performance.
• Act as a key point of contact for urgent operational queries, ensuring issues are resolved promptly and disruption is minimised.
• Build strong working relationships with customers and site management, responding effectively to concerns and operational requirements.
• Support the recruitment, selection and onboarding of permanent and temporary drivers to meet changing business needs.
• Ensure accidents, near misses and other incidents are reported, investigated and documented appropriately.
• Monitor and escalate any vehicle, equipment, depot or site maintenance requirements.
• Oversee vehicle and trailer compliance, including daily checks, defect reporting, inspections, servicing and statutory testing.
• Support performance reviews, investigations and formal employee processes where required.
• Work alongside the Transport Manager on operational initiatives and continuous improvement projects.
• Assist with overtime administration, driver expenses and the resolution of pay-related queries.
• Support general depot administration and ensure operational records and reports are maintained accurately.
• Identify driver training requirements and ensure relevant induction, refresher and role-specific training is completed.
• Take ownership of unforeseen operational issues, implementing practical solutions and ensuring lessons learned are incorporated into future planning.
• Work collaboratively with key support functions including Fleet, HR, Planning, Finance and Workforce Management.