This is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the operational backbone of a growing logistics business.

Client Details

Our client is a growing logistics business.

Description

The Operations Director is responsible for leading and optimising all operational activity across the road freight forwarding business. Based in Kent, this role ensures that service delivery, cost control, compliance and operational performance consistently support our clients commercial objectives and long-term growth. Reporting into the Managing Director, key responsibilities will include:

• Develop and execute the company's operational strategy in line with overall business objectives.
• Ensure operational capability, structure, and capacity align with commercial growth plans.
• Lead, mentor and develop the operations management team to achieve consistent performance.
• Own end-to-end service delivery across all road freight forwarding operations.
• Oversee capacity planning, carrier performance and network utilisation.
• Control operational costs while maintaining service quality and reliability.
• Ensure operational decisions protect agreed pricing and margin targets.
• Drive continuous efficiency improvements across people, process, and network.
• Ensure full compliance with transport legislation, customs procedures, and company policies.
• Lead health & safety and quality standards across all operational activities.
• Support key customer relationships from an operational performance perspective and act as a senior operational escalation point for strategic customers.
• Build and manage relationships with hauliers, subcontractors and partners and oversee supplier performance, compliance and SLAs.
• Contribute to strategic planning, investment decisions and business development initiatives.

Profile

To be considered for the Operations Director role you will live within a commuting distance of our client's operation in Kent and be able to demonstrate the following experience:

• Proven senior operational leadership experience within road freight forwarding.
• Strong understanding of UK and European road freight operations.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex, time-critical transport networks.
• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance service, cost and margin.
• Experience operating within a fast-growing or change-led logistics environment.
• Strong people leader who builds accountability and high performance.
• Delivery-focused with a pragmatic and decisive leadership style.
• Process-driven with a continuous improvement mindset.

Job Offer

The successful Operations Director will be rewarded with the following package:

• Competitive salary ranging from £90,000 to £110,000 per annum.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including a car or allowance, performance related bonus and pension.
• International travel required.