About Company
Wincanton PLC is a leading supply chain partner for UK businesses, providing a wide range of logistics and transport solutions. With a rich history spanning nearly a century, Wincanton operates across various sectors including retail, defence, construction, and energy, managing complex supply chains that keep Britain moving. We pride ourselves on innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to sustainability, leveraging cutting-edge technology and a dedicated workforce to deliver exceptional service. At Wincanton, we foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and continuous improvement, offering exciting opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic and essential industry.
Job Description
Are you a meticulous planner with a passion for optimising logistics and ensuring seamless operations? Wincanton PLC, a leader in UK supply chain solutions, is seeking a talented and driven Transport Planner to join our team in Redland, Bristol. This pivotal role is at the heart of our operational efficiency, where you will be instrumental in designing optimal delivery routes and expertly dispatching our fleet of vehicles.
As a Transport Planner, you will be responsible for the end-to-end planning of daily transport operations, ensuring that deliveries are made on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of safety and customer satisfaction. Your day will involve leveraging advanced planning software to create efficient routes that minimise mileage, fuel consumption, and environmental impact, while maximising vehicle utilisation. You will navigate the complexities of road networks, traffic conditions, and delivery schedules, making real-time adjustments to plans as unforeseen challenges arise. This role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving, excellent geographical knowledge, and a keen eye for detail.
Beyond route design, you will be the linchpin for vehicle dispatch, coordinating with drivers, warehouse teams, and customer service to ensure smooth execution. This includes managing driver availability, assigning vehicles, overseeing the loading process, and monitoring progress throughout the day. Communication is key; you will be the go-to person for updates, issues, and resolutions, maintaining clear and concise dialogue with all stakeholders. You will contribute significantly to our operational KPIs, ensuring compliance with all transport regulations and Wincanton’s rigorous safety standards. This is more than just a planning role; it’s an opportunity to shape the success of our transport division, directly impacting our service delivery and our commitment to excellence for our diverse client base. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and are ready to take on a role with significant responsibility and impact, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and optimise daily delivery routes for a fleet of vehicles, considering geographical constraints, delivery windows, and cost-efficiency.
- Utilise transport planning software and real-time data to make informed decisions and adjustments to plans.
- Allocate drivers and vehicles effectively, ensuring maximum utilisation and compliance with driving hours regulations.
- Manage the dispatch process, including issuing delivery instructions, manifests, and handling driver queries.
- Monitor vehicle progress throughout the day, proactively addressing any delays, breakdowns, or changes in schedule.
- Communicate effectively with drivers, warehouse staff, customer service, and clients regarding delivery status and potential issues.
- Ensure all transport operations comply with company policies, health and safety regulations, and legal requirements (e.g., Working Time Directive).
- Resolve operational challenges promptly and professionally, identifying root causes and implementing preventative measures.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance planning processes and operational efficiency.
- Prepare and analyse daily/weekly performance reports to identify trends and areas for optimisation.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Transport Planner or in a similar logistics coordination role.
- Strong understanding of transport legislation, driver hours, and vehicle compliance.
- Proficiency in using transport planning software and geographical mapping tools.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively.
- Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to challenges.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of liaising with diverse stakeholders.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced operational environment.
- Good geographical knowledge of Bristol and the surrounding areas.
Preferred Qualifications
- Hold a relevant qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- Experience with specific transport management systems (TMS) used in large-scale logistics operations.
- Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
- Forklift license or experience in a warehouse environment.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and annual bonus scheme.
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Company pension scheme.
- Life assurance.
- Access to Wincanton's employee discount platform (e.g., retail, travel, entertainment).
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities.
- Career progression within a leading logistics organisation.
- Employee assistance program for health and wellbeing support.
- Modern office environment with free parking (if applicable).
How to Apply
Ready to take the wheel of your career? We invite you to explore this exciting opportunity by clicking the application link below. Please ensure your CV is up-to-date and highlights your experience relevant to transport planning and logistics. We look forward to reviewing your application!