Depot Manager

Founded in 2010, VVKP Limited is an established UK-based haulage and transport company providing reliable and efficient logistics services nationwide. With a strong focus on safety, compliance, and customer satisfaction, VVKP operates a modern, well-maintained fleet and continues to deliver dependable road transport solutions to clients across multiple sectors.

Job Purpose:

The Depot Manager will oversee and manage all aspects of VVKP Limited's depot operations and lead a team of drivers, planners, and administrative staff to ensure the efficient, safe, and compliant delivery of transport services.

This is a supervisory and management position, responsible for the effective coordination of daily operations, staff performance, vehicle utilisation, and compliance with all company policies and legal obligations. The Depot Manager will act as the key link between senior management, the depot workforce, and clients, ensuring smooth operations and high standards across all areas.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee all daily depot activities, including vehicle dispatch, route planning, driver allocation, and load management.
• Supervise a team of drivers, transport planners, warehouse operatives, and administrative staff, ensuring productivity and adherence to company procedures.
• Allocate work schedules, monitor attendance, authorise overtime, and manage shift rotas to maintain adequate staffing levels.
• Ensure the timely and efficient delivery of goods while maximising vehicle and driver productivity.
• Supervise the preparation, loading, and unloading of vehicles in compliance with safety and handling standards.
• Maintain accurate records of vehicle movements, delivery schedules, and transport documentation.
• Ensure depot facilities are kept in good working order, clean, and compliant with safety regulations.
• Ensure full adherence to Operator's Licence, DVSA, Health & Safety, and Tachograph/Driver Hours regulations.
• Conduct regular vehicle and driver compliance checks, including spot inspections and audits.
• Oversee defect reporting, vehicle servicing, MOTs, and maintenance scheduling.
• Ensure all drivers maintain valid CPC qualifications and are regularly briefed on compliance matters.
• Investigate incidents, accidents, and breaches of company policy, implementing corrective and disciplinary actions where appropriate.
• Manage, lead, and motivate depot staff to achieve high performance, engagement, and accountability.
• Oversee recruitment, induction, and ongoing staff training to develop skills and ensure operational competence.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, appraisals, and team meetings, setting clear objectives and providing feedback.
• Promote a strong safety culture and positive working environment across the depot.
• Control depot budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources and cost management (fuel, maintenance, overtime, and staffing).
• Monitor KPIs including delivery performance, vehicle utilisation, and downtime, providing reports to senior management.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Prepare operational, compliance, and financial reports for senior management review.
• Serve as the main point of contact for customers, ensuring a professional and responsive service.
• Resolve delivery or service issues promptly and effectively, escalating where necessary.
• Liaise with subcontractors, suppliers, and maintenance providers to ensure high service standards.
• Maintain excellent communication between the depot, head office, and client contacts.
• Supervise stock control, yard safety, and the secure storage and movement of goods within depot premises.
• Represent the company in audits, inspections, and meetings with regulatory authorities as required.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Minimum 1–2 years' experience in a supervisory or managerial role within a transport, haulage, or logistics environment.
• Proven experience managing a depot or operational transport site, including direct supervision of staff and fleet operations.
• Strong knowledge of UK road transport legislation, Operator's Licence requirements, and DVSA compliance standards.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop a team of drivers and depot staff.
• Excellent planning, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to liaise effectively with clients and staff at all levels.
• Competence in transport management systems (TMS), fleet tracking, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Financial awareness with experience in budget control, cost reduction, and KPI reporting.
• A valid UK driving licence.

Desirable (Preferred) Requirements

• Experience managing multi-depot or large-scale transport operations.
• Familiarity with telematics, vehicle tracking, and route optimisation systems.
• Experience in ADR, temperature-controlled, or specialist haulage operations (if applicable).
• Availability to work flexible hours when necessary.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for business purposes.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £34,000.00-£37,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person