Transport & Operations Manager - Sameday Transport

The Opportunity

RightNow Group are currently recruiting for a Transport & Operations Manager on behalf of an established, independent transport and logistics business operating in the Heathrow area.

Our client specialises in time-critical airfreight collections and deliveries, supporting freight forwarders, airlines, cargo handlers and logistics businesses across Heathrow and the wider UK.

The business operates two commercial vans alongside an established network of subcontracted transport providers, including HGV operators.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to take the next step in their career. You don't necessarily need previous management experience - we're equally interested in speaking with ambitious Transport Planners, Traffic Operators or Airfreight Operations professionals who are ready to step up and take on more responsibility.

You'll be overseeing a small team of two Transport Planners / Operators, managing the daily operation and working closely with the business owners to improve efficiency, develop customer relationships and support future growth.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee the day-to-day running of transport operations, ensuring collections and deliveries are completed efficiently.

Manage, support and develop two Transport Planners / Operators.

Coordinate the company's two commercial vans, drivers and subcontracted transport movements.

Arrange HGV movements and nationwide deliveries using an established network of subcontractors.

Utilise Courier Exchange to source transport solutions, maximise vehicle utilisation and identify profitable opportunities.

Prepare customer quotations, calculate transport costs and ensure jobs are priced competitively whilst maintaining healthy profit margins.

Manage airfreight collections and deliveries from Heathrow airline sheds, cargo handlers and freight forwarders.

Ensure operations are carried out in accordance with relevant CAA aviation security requirements and procedures.

Build and maintain strong relationships with existing customers.

Identify opportunities to generate additional business and develop new customer relationships.

Monitor operational costs, subcontractor rates, vehicle utilisation and job profitability.

Oversee daily bookings, customer enquiries and operational administration.

Help introduce improvements to existing processes, systems and working practices.

Occasionally jump into one of the company vans to assist with urgent collections or deliveries when required.

Work closely with the business owners to help develop and grow the operation.

About You

We're not necessarily looking for someone who has already held a management position. We're looking for someone who is motivated, commercially aware, organised and ready to take ownership of a small transport operation.

What we're looking for:

Experience within transport operations, airfreight logistics, freight forwarding or express courier operations.

Good knowledge of Heathrow Airport cargo operations and the local freight community.

An understanding of CAA aviation security requirements relating to air cargo movements.

Strong commercial awareness, with the confidence to prepare quotations, calculate costs and negotiate rates.

Good organisational skills and the ability to work under pressure in a time-critical environment.

A confident communicator who can build relationships with customers, drivers and subcontractors.

A proactive, hands-on attitude and a willingness to get involved in all aspects of the operation.

Good IT skills and the ability to learn new systems and platforms.

A full, valid UK driving licence and willingness to drive company vans when required.

The ambition to take on additional responsibility and develop into a management position.

Desirable, but not essential:

Previous supervisory or management experience.

Experience using Courier Exchange or similar transport platforms.

Experience arranging subcontracted HGV movements.

Existing relationships within the Heathrow freight forwarding community.

Previous experience working within a CAA-regulated transport or logistics business.

Working Hours

Monday to Friday, 08:00 - 17:00.

Due to the nature of time-critical transport and airfreight operations, flexibility will be required to support the business outside of standard working hours when necessary.

What's on Offer?

£35,000 - £40,000 basic salary, depending on experience.

An excellent opportunity to step into a management role.

Responsibility for a small, established transport operation.

Support from the business owners and the opportunity to learn and develop.

A varied role combining transport planning, commercial pricing, customer relationships and team management.

The freedom to introduce new ideas and improve existing processes.

A friendly, independent business environment where your contribution will genuinely make a difference.

Long-term career development opportunities.

Salary: £35,000 - £40,000 per annum Location: Heathrow Area Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 - 17:00 (flexibility required) Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Apply Today

Whether you're an experienced Transport Manager or an ambitious Transport Planner / Operator looking for your next career move, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact RightNow Group for a confidential discussion