Transport Controller jobs
Logistics companies cannot exist without their vehicles and drivers, and it is the job of the transport controller to ensure that both of these pieces of the jigsaw are working harmoniously and are legal. The controller could also be in charge of recruitment of drivers and the creation of a team of either permanent staff, agency workers or a blend of both, as well as admin and office staff.
The transport controller will need to ensure that all vehicles are kept in a roadworthy state and comply with all the legal requirements of their classes. The same applies to the drivers, who must be in possession of the correct licences and certificates to haul the particular goods the company specialises in. It will be down to the transport controller to ensure compliance in all these elements is observed.
Maintaining efficiency in his or her department will also be a key responsibility. They will be expected to seek the best deals for fuel, or indeed to negotiate them, and will also need to keep the vehicles in tip top condition so that they are at their optimum efficiency. Modern analysis tools allow driver behaviour to be monitored too, and the transport manager will need to stay abreast of such technologies and use them to the company’s advantage where available.
The skills required
The transport controller is a position of great responsibility as regards the legal status and profitability of the logistics company, and he or she should be able to shoulder the pressure with confidence to succeed. Working to tight deadlines will be normal in most depots; there are rarely slack periods in logistics. Being able to communicate well both verbally and in writing will help enormously.
A good understanding of the law surrounding HGVs and other goods vehicles will usually be required, and any knowledge of the specific laws pertaining to the specific goods carried by the company will usually be an advantage, although most logistics companies will ensure that all its staff are familiar with these elements.
Transport Controller Jobs in the East Midlands
Comprising counties like Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire, the East Midlands is a wonderful choice for those seeking Transport Controller vacancies.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, many scientific discoveries were made in the East Midlands. It was a pivotal place for the Industrial Revolution, being home to what many call the first modern factory - John Smedley's textile production facility at Lea Bridge, which was opened in 1794.
Some of the earliest military tanks were manufactured in Lincoln, while jet engines were also developed in the region - with the first jet aircraft flying from RAF Cranwell in 1941.
Meanwhile, Derby was home to a Rolls-Royce factory that produced Merlin aero-engines until 1950, as well as a railway works. The Corby Steelworks in Northamptonshire was one of the largest facilities of its type in the middle of the 20th century.
Today, manufacturing is still a major part of the economy of the East Midlands. A number of big-name firms operate in the region, including Rolls-Royce, Siemens, Triumph Motorcycles, Toyota, Caterpillar and LaFarge Aggregates. There's also Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains, which builds Formula One engines in Brixworth.
What's more, Bombardier Transportation in Derby produces new rolling stock for London Underground, and is the only remaining train manufacturer in the UK - it also builds Turbo Star and ElectroStar overground units.
Popular locations
Cast UK’s logistics opportunities
Cast UK’s recruitment consultants work with a host of employers around the UK to ensure positions are filled by the best people, and many of them approach us to create a shortlist rather than advertising jobs nationally or locally. We have specialists for every UK region and all the major cities, so wherever you are, we could have a position for you.
Whether you're moving house, looking to change employer or are simply seeking a change in career, get in touch with Cast UK. Our own staff are all source from within procurement, logistics and supply chain, and these are the backgrounds of our founder members, so we fully understand the needs of the industry.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Transport Controller for your business or find you a job as a Transport Controller then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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