Transport Manager

Location: Hybrid | UK Wide Travel Required

Reporting To: HR Director

About Vella Group Vella Group is one of the UK's leading accident repair specialists, operating from 22 repair centres nationwide. Through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions, we continue to expand our footprint, capabilities and reputation across the automotive repair sector. As our business grows, we are seeking an experienced and proactive Transport Manager to oversee and optimise our vehicle movement operations, fleet compliance and transport strategy across the Group. This is a newly created role offering the opportunity to shape and develop transport processes within a fast-paced, ambitious and evolving organisation.

The Role

The Transport Manager will be responsible for managing all aspects of vehicle transportation and fleet compliance across the Group. Working closely with operational leaders, site management teams and support functions, you will ensure vehicle movements are conducted safely, efficiently and in compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. This is a hybrid role requiring regular travel across our UK repair centres.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage transport operations across the Group.
• Ensure full compliance with Operator Licence requirements, DVSA regulations and all relevant transport legislation.
• Act as the Group's nominated Transport Manager where required.
• Develop and implement transport policies, procedures and best practice.
• Oversee fleet utilisation, efficiency and vehicle movement planning.
• Monitor and improve transport-related KPIs including cost, utilisation, compliance and service levels.
• Support acquisition integrations, ensuring newly acquired businesses meet Group transport standards.
• Conduct audits and compliance reviews across multiple sites.
• Manage relationships with vehicle suppliers, transport providers and external stakeholders.
• Investigate incidents, identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Provide guidance and support to operational management teams regarding transport compliance and fleet management.
• Identify opportunities to reduce cost, improve efficiency and enhance service delivery.

About You We're looking for a transport professional who combines strong compliance knowledge with a commercial and operational mindset.You will have:

Essential

• International or National CPC qualification in Road Haulage Operations.
• Proven experience operating as a Transport Manager within a multi-site environment.
• Strong knowledge of transport legislation, Operator Licensing and DVSA requirements.
• Experience managing fleet compliance and vehicle operations.
• The ability to influence and build relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent organisation, planning and problem-solving skills.
• A full UK driving licence.
• Willingness to travel nationally.

Desirable

• Experience within automotive, accident repair, logistics or fleet sectors.
• Experience supporting business acquisitions and operational integrations.
• Knowledge of fleet management systems and transport technology.
• NEBOSH or IOSH qualification.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Company car or car allowance
• Hybrid working
• Pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Employee benefits programme
• Opportunity to play a key role in a growing national business

Why Join Vella Group?

This is an exciting opportunity to join a successful and ambitious organisation at a pivotal stage in its growth journey. You'll have the autonomy to make a genuine impact, influence standards across the Group and help build a transport function fit for the future.