Transport Administrator - 6 months fixed term contract

Lawsons is the UK’s largest independent supplier of timber, fencing and building materials. With over 35 branches and 700+ colleagues across London and the South East, we deliver quality products, expert advice and excellent customer service. We are recruiting for a Transport Administrator to join our Bury Hill branch and support the efficient coordination of deliveries for trade and retail customers.

Position Overview

We are looking for an organised and reliable Transport Administrator to support the day-to-day administration of the transport operation at our Bury Hill branch on a 6 month fixed term contract. You will help coordinate delivery schedules, communicate with drivers and customers, prepare transport documentation and ensure delivery information is recorded accurately. This is a busy and varied role requiring excellent attention to detail, strong communication skills and the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.

Main Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily delivery schedules in liaison with the Transport Manager, branch colleagues, drivers and customers.
• Plan and allocate deliveries efficiently, taking account of customer requirements, vehicle availability, delivery locations and agreed timeframes.
• Prepare, check and process delivery notes, transport paperwork, route information and other relevant documentation.
• Communicate delivery details and updates to drivers, customers and branch teams by telephone, email and internal systems.
• Monitor delivery progress and provide customers with accurate updates regarding scheduled and delayed deliveries.
• Record delivery information accurately, including completed deliveries, failed deliveries, returns, damages and customer queries.
• Respond to transport-related enquiries professionally and elevate issues to the Transport Manager or relevant branch colleague where required.
• Work closely with the sales, yard and transport teams to ensure customer orders are ready, loaded correctly and dispatched on time.
• Assist with the investigation and resolution of delivery discrepancies, product shortages, damages and service issues.
• Maintain accurate records in company systems and ensure transport documentation is filed in line with company procedures.
• Support driver administration, including vehicle checks, defect reporting, compliance records and working time documentation where required.
• Help ensure all transport activities are carried out in accordance with company Health & Safety procedures and relevant legal requirements.
• Carry out any other reasonable administrative or operational tasks as requested by your line manager.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Previous administration experience, ideally within transport, logistics, distribution, builders’ merchants or a similar fast-paced environment.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Good telephone and written communication skills, with a professional and customer-focused approach.
• Confident using Microsoft Office, email and computer-based administration systems.
• Basic numeracy and literacy skills, with the ability to check quantities, delivery details and transport information accurately.
• Ability to remain calm and solution-focused when dealing with changes, delays or customer queries.
• Experience of delivery scheduling, route planning or transport management systems is desirable.
• Knowledge of driver compliance, vehicle documentation or transport regulations is desirable but not essential.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a busy branch team.

Working Hours

This is a full-time position = 45 per week, working on a 6 month fixed term contract. Typical hours will be Monday to Friday 07.00 - 17.00 with some flexibility required to support operational requirements and customer delivery schedules.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive annual salary £36,500 - £37,500 + Laptop + Mobile Phone (pro rata for 6 months)
• 22 days’ holiday pro rata plus UK Bank Holidays
• Company pension scheme and Death in Service benefit
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to wellbeing support including online GP
• Comprehensive onboarding and ongoing training
• Opportunities for career development and progression
• Supportive, team-oriented culture within a leading independent supplier

Why Join Lawsons?

• Join a well-established and respected business with a strong regional presence.
• Work in a varied role that directly supports customer service and branch performance.
• Develop your transport, logistics and administration skills through training and practical experience.
• Be part of a supportive team where your contribution is valued and recognised.
• Work for a company that prioritises safety, service quality and colleague wellbeing.

Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are organised, detail-focused and enjoy working in a busy transport and customer service environment, we would like to hear from you. #MP

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