Transport PlannerOverviewA growing dairy manufacturing business is seeking a hands-onTransport Plannerto manage daily distribution operations across a fleet of 8 vehicles, including two tankers. This role ensures the efficient, timely, and cost-effective delivery of milk and cream products to retail and foodservice customers.The successful candidate will be highly organised, practical, and comfortable balancing load planning duties with hands-on operational support, including van loading and occasional delivery driving when required.Key ResponsibilitiesTransport Planning & Delivery SchedulingPlan and optimise daily delivery routes for a fleet of 8 vehicles, ensuring maximum efficiency and on-time customer service.Allocate loads to company vehicles and determine where 3rd-party hauliers should be used to supplement capacity or manage longer routes.Plan daily schedules for two tanker drivers, ensuring routes align with production and collection timelines.Prepare delivery manifests and ensure all paperwork is accurate and compliant.Operational SupportAssist in loading vans when required, ensuring products are handled correctly and in line with food safety standards.Provide driving cover during staff shortages, holiday periods, or unexpected absences.Support early-morning dispatch operations, ensuring all vehicles leave on time.Fleet & Compliance ManagementMonitor vehicle maintenance schedules, inspections, and repair needs.Conduct basic vehicle checks and ensure drivers follow company policies regarding safety and hygiene.Maintain transport compliance records and liaise with external service providers.People Coordination & CoverOrganise driver rosters and ensure cover for holidays, absenteeism, and peak periods.Communicate clearly with drivers regarding route changes, delays, or customer issues.Support a positive working environment among drivers and warehouse/production teams.3rd-Party Haulier ManagementBuild constructive working relationships with external hauliers.Negotiate capacity, dates, pricing, and reliability as needed.Ensure 3rd-party operators meet required food safety and delivery standards.Customer Service & CommunicationServe as a primary point of contact for delivery queries.Liaise with production, sales, and customer service on order readiness, route issues, and urgent customer requests.Resolve delivery challenges quickly and professionally.Experience & QualificationsEssential2–3+ years' experience in transport planning, logistics coordination, or fleet management (food distribution experience an advantage).Strong route-planning capability and understanding of multi-drop delivery operations.Full clean driving licence; comfortable driving vans when required.Experience working in a fast-paced early-start environment.Ability to manage schedules, resources, and cover in a small-team setting.Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.DesirableCPC qualification (not essential but a strong advantage).Experience planning tankers or liquid logistics.Understanding of basic food safety and chilled distribution requirements.IT skills suitable for route planning, basic reporting, and using dispatch systems.Personal AttributesHands-on, practical, and willing to step into operational duties when needed.Highly organised with a calm, solution-focused approach.Strong communicator who works well with drivers, production staff, and customers.Reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining excellent service standards.Comfortable working in a small but ambitious growing family business.We look forward to hearing from you.