Assistant Transport Manager/Driver (East Grinstead)

Our client is a family business with years of experience, within the building sector. They pride themselves with their knowledge and selling and delivering quality products.

Our client is seeking an Assistant Transport Manager / Driver (ATM/D) to join their Transport team, supporting the effective day-to-day running of the transport operation.

Working closely with the Transport Planner and Transport Manager, the role plays an important part in ensuring deliveries are conducted safely, efficiently, and in line with UK transport legislation, including DVSA and Operator Licence requirements. The position offers a strong opportunity for someone looking to develop their transport management experience while remaining hands-on within the operation.

The role also includes a driving element, providing operational support through ad hoc driving, vehicle movements, and emergency driver cover when required. Driving duties form part of operational support and are not the primary function of the role.

Main Duties

• Support compliance with drivers’ hours regulations, the WTD, VWL, and Operator Licence obligations. Ensure planned maintenance inspections (PMIs)are booked, monitored, and recorded via the ERP system, and that vehicle compliance documentation is maintained accurately.

• Assist with the day-to-day operation of the transport function, including route planning support, vehicle utilisation, and operational adjustments to maximise fleet efficiency, fuel usage, and service performance. Support the coordination of deliveries by confirming delivery arrangements, site access, and unloading requirements, and respond to delays, breakdowns, and urgent delivery requests, escalating issues where appropriate.

• Support the coordination of drivers and fleet assets to ensure legal compliance and operational readiness. Maintain fleet service and defect records, support the timely resolution of vehicle defects, conduct fleet walkaround and spot checks, monitor tyre condition, and ensure load security procedures are followed.

• Collaborate with drivers to support day-to-day performance, including attendance, punctuality, and completion of training and induction requirements. Assist with managing performance and conduct issues in line with company procedures, escalating matters where required. Monitor driver leave and availability alongside the Transport Manager to maintain delivery capacity and service levels.

• Liaise with external service providers, maintenance suppliers, and third-party partners to support fleet availability, vehicle servicing, and defect resolution.

• Undertake ad hoc HGV driving duties as required to support operations. This includes moving vehicles to and from service, MOT, or repair centres, and providing emergency cover for delivery drivers during periods of absence or operational disruption.

• Accurately record and report transport data, supporting agreed KPIs covering service performance, efficiency, and compliance. Assist with monitoring transport-related costs, including fuel usage, maintenance, repairs, and agency driver spend, highlighting issues or opportunities for improvement.

• Where required, coordinate with approved third-party haulage providers to support delivery capacity and efficiency.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the transport operation and provide cover when required.

Qualifications And Experience

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working within a transport or logistics office environment

• Must have an HGV Class 2 licence (with no more than 6 points on licence) and hold a Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) with the ability to provide ad hoc driving support and emergency driver cover

• Experience working within an Operator Licence (O-Licence) environment

• Strong organisational skills with a high level of attention to detail

• Confident, professional communication skills with a customer-focused approach

• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications

• Proven ability to manage changing priorities in a fast-paced operational environment

• Strong commitment to health, safety, and legal compliance

• Flexible approach to working hours to meet operational requirements

• Transport or logistics-related qualification

• Experience supporting transport planning or fleet operations

• Experience contributing to cost control or performance improvement initiatives

• Reliable and proactive, with a practical approach to problem-solving

• Calm, organised, and professional when working under pressure

• Willing to learn and develop within a transport management environment

• Positive team player with a hands-on, supportive approach

Working Hours

• Monday to Friday (no weekend work)

• Standards contract hours are 08:00 to 17:30

Benefits

• Standard 20 days bookable holiday with an extra three over the Christmas period, so 23 in total.

• No Bank Holidays and Shut on the last working day before Christmas and open in January.

• Company pension

We will try to respond to reply to all applicants. If, however you have not heard from us within 7 days you have been unsuccessful with this particular role. You are very welcome to apply to future advertisements advertised by CDH Recruitment Limited