Transport Planning Manager jobs
Looking after a fleet of vehicles has never been a simple task, and it could be said that with the advent of technologies to simplify logistics and keep a second by second track of the vehicles, all that has happened is that new complexity has been loaded into the system. In other words, the transport planning manager is still an essential role, which is highly valued in logistics.
There are two main strands to the transport planning manager’s job: ensuring consignments are delivered on time and making the whole process as efficient as possible. Nowadays, sophisticated transport offices are kept informed of the complete status of every vehicle, and planning can take place while they are on the road, with drivers being informed of new destinations and alerted to traffic problems as they go. They will also need to make sure spaces on ferries are booked; it is keeping on top of details like this that make a successful transport planning manager.
The planning manager will also have close contact with the customers, both to inform them of the status of their deliveries and to arrange backhaul availability, for example. He or she will also need to make sure drivers are available and organise backup if drivers become unavailable through illness; likewise, should a breakdown occur, the planning manager will have to be quick thinking enough to arrange the best way to get the load delivered.
The skills required
The transport planning manager is first a planner and second a communicator, and the two roles need to work in harmony with each other. A calm person who thinks in four dimensions will be suited to the job; a day might start out looking perfectly planned out but look like a disaster movie by lunchtime due to events out of his or her control. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated an ability to cope with the stresses of such a chain of events.
The job will be extremely reliant on the company’s IT infrastructure, so computer literacy will be an absolute must for this role too.
Transport Planning Manager Jobs in Wolverhampton
A West Midlands city that was historically part of Staffordshire, Wolverhampton is said to be named after King Wulfhere after he established an abbey in the seventh century. The city first became prominent as a market town around the 1100s and it was known for its wools and textiles, although it was not granted a royal charter for a market until 1258.
From the 16th century, Wolverhampton started manufacturing items like keys, locks, brassware and ironwork.
During the Industrial Revolution, the city grew significantly, as local mines produced vast quantities of coal, limestone and iron ore. Other goods manufactured in Wolverhampton during this time included steel and japanned ware.
Later, Wolves gained a reputation for producing motorcycles and cars, and the first vehicle to beat the 200 mph land speed record was built in the city.
These days, Wolverhampton is an excellent spot for those looking for Transport Planning Manager roles. It is mainly known for engineering works, with a specialty in aerospace and precision components - companies in these industries include HS Marston, MOOG and Goodrich. The service sector is also an important part of the city's economy and it is one of the largest retail centres in the region.
Birmingham Midshires is based in Wolverhampton, while Marston's operates a brewery in the city that produces Banks's, Hanson's and Mansfield beers. Other large businesses include Beatties, Chubb Locks, Tarmac and Carillion.
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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 Planning Manager for your business or find you a job as a Transport Planning Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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