Senior Manager, School Transport South.
This role holds the overall responsibility for managing School Transport Services across the Southern Region in both Waterford and Cork ensuring the safe, timely, and efficient delivery of school bus services in accordance with the School Transport Schemes policy. This position is pivotal in ensuring that all school transport policies and procedures are effectively implemented and adhered to. As a key member of the School Transport Senior Management Team, the role reports directly to the Chief Schools Officer and oversees the safe operation and efficient administration of the School Transport Offices in Waterford and Cork. You will possess demonstrated management experience, particularly within the transport sector and in leading teams, alongside comprehensive knowledge of legislation related to road passenger transport and the School Transport Scheme.
Overview of Responsibilities:
1. Provide safe, timely, and efficient school bus services in line with Department of Education & Youth (DEY) policies and School Transport Schemes.
2. Coordinate with Department of Education & Youth (DEY) and Chief Schools Officer on implementing recommendations from the "School Transport 2030" review.
3. Plan, schedule, and monitor resources to optimise bus and driver utilisation.
4. Ensure all school buses pass required roadworthiness tests, in collaboration with the Regional Engineer.
5. Recruitment of school bus drivers ensuring high standards and apply HR policies at all times.
6. Oversee ongoing training, vetting, and record-keeping for all drivers and contractors.
7. Manage contractor relationships, verify documentation, and ensure vehicle safety and roadworthiness while liaising with the Engineering Department.
8. Ensure FTA checks conducted on min 12.5 % of all fleet.
9. Management of Procurement & Tendering process within the region in line with procedures set out by the Central Procurement Office.
10. Ensure that the School Transport Office submits all relevant reports as required to Central Schools/CSO and DOE
11. Oversee regional school transport offices and staff, supporting and training Office Managers in Cork and Waterford. Manage disciplinary matters and ensure GPS compliance.
12. Ensure compliance with all GDPR policies and legislation and ensure all staff are trained in this area
13. Engage with stakeholders,. Schools Personnel, Escorts/SENO/ Local Authorities/Member of the Oireachtas to ensure safe, efficient service.
14. Maintain oversight and controls per audit requirements, assist CIE Internal Audit in Cork and Waterford as needed.
15. Implement new IT systems and support digital transformation of school transport operations.
Requirements:
16. 3rd level Business related degree
17. Previous management experience, particularly in the transport business and people management
18. Knowledge of legislation linked to road passenger transport and School Transport Scheme
19. Ability to work with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, an advantage/Power BI
20. Monitor Expenditure across all categories
21. Knowledge of Company IT Systems. legacy/SAP/Business Warehouse
22. Knowledge of Company staff agreements and conditions
23. Route planning and vehicle scheduling
24. Staff supervision and direction
25. Knowledge of the procurement process for school transport contractors
26. Familiarity with the Trapeze school transport system would be an advantage.