Transport Planning Manager
£40,000 + Benefits
Merseyside

Are you someone who thrives in a fast-paced, time-critical transport environment where communication, control and operational performance are key?

This opportunity would suit either an experienced pallet network professional ready to take ownership of a busy operation, or a strong Supervisor/Coordinator looking to step into a broader management role. This is a site-based position working within a fast-moving logistics environment.

Role Profile

We're working with a well-established logistics and distribution business looking to strengthen their pallet network operation with the appointment of a Network Manager. This is a hands-on leadership role focused on ensuring the smooth day-to-day coordination of network activity, maintaining service standards and driving operational improvements across the function.

You will take responsibility for the overall performance of the pallet network function, by leading a team of 3 transport planners, ensuring deliveries and collections are completed efficiently while maintaining strong communication with drivers, customers and internal teams. Working closely with transport, warehouse and customer service departments, you will ensure all operational activity is monitored closely, issues are resolved within agreed timelines and network performance standards are consistently achieved.

Key Responsibilities

• Take overall responsibility for the day-to-day pallet network operation.
• Monitor operational performance and implement improvements where targets are not achieved.
• Ensure deliveries and collections are completed within agreed service levels.
• Manage and cost leakages, service failures and operational inefficiencies.
• Ensure all systems are updated accurately to maintain compliance and avoid penalties.
• Oversee trunking volumes and coordination across regional network hubs.
• Manage resource planning, including holidays and absence cover, to maintain service standards.
• Promote a culture aligned to company values and continuous improvement.
• Provide operational cover for the wider management team when required.

Key Skills & Experience

• Previous experience within a major pallet network or multi-drop transport operation is essential.
• Strong understanding of driver management, routing and operational coordination.
• Experience working within a fast-paced, time-critical logistics environment.
• Knowledge of network compliance, service performance and operational KPIs.
• Strong problem solving ability with a proactive and organised approach.
• Confident managing driver engagement, performance and driving hours compliance.
• Comfortable using transport systems, email and operational reporting tools.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to prioritise workload effectively.

Want to recruit a similar role?
Cast UK is a leading executive consultancy, providing national recruitment solutions to both clients and candidates. Specialising in HR, Procurement, Buying, Supply Chain and Logistics, each member of our specialist team has a professional background specific to their recruiting sector. With this unique insight and knowledge, our consultants are able to place individuals from trainee through to main board. For more information on Cast UK or to discuss how we can find talent for your business then please visit