The Department Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and optimizing daily transportation and logistics operations to ensure efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality service delivery. This role includes managing fleet operations, warehouse logistics, route planning, compliance with transportation regulations, and ensuring seamless coordination with clients and internal teams.

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, industry expertise, and the ability to implement operational strategies that enhance productivity and profitability.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Management

• Oversee and manage daily transportation, logistics, and supply chain operations.
• Ensure on-time delivery and cost-efficient fleet utilization.
• Develop strategic route planning and optimization techniques to reduce fuel costs and improve efficiency.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with local and international transport regulations.
• Implement and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all operational activities.
• Collaborate with the warehouse and distribution teams to ensure seamless cargo movement and inventory management.

Fleet & Driver Management

• Supervise fleet maintenance, scheduling, and availability to ensure smooth operations.
• Monitor driver performance, fuel consumption, and route adherence.
• Ensure all vehicle safety and compliance standards are met, including licensing and inspections.
• Implement driver training programs to improve efficiency and reduce risks.

Customer & Stakeholder Coordination

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and transport partners.
• Act as the primary point of contact for escalations, issue resolution, and customer service improvements.
• Ensure timely communication of operational updates to customers and internal teams.
• Drive initiatives to improve customer satisfaction and service delivery standards.

Financial & Cost Control

• Develop and manage the department’s budget, cost forecasting, and P&L analysis.
• Identify opportunities to reduce operational costs and increase profitability.
• Implement cost-saving measures without compromising service quality.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure strict adherence to local transport laws, safety regulations, and environmental policies.
• Manage risk assessment and mitigation strategies for fleet and logistics operations.
• Ensure company compliance with insurance policies, driver certifications, and safety standards.

Technology & Process Improvement

• Oversee the implementation of Transport Management Systems (TMS), GPS tracking, and fleet monitoring tools.
• Leverage data analytics to track performance metrics and drive continuous improvement.
• Identify and implement automation solutions to enhance operational efficiency.

Team Leadership & Training

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of operations staff, dispatchers, and drivers.
• Conduct performance evaluations, training programs, and career development plans for team members.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5-10 years of experience in transportation, logistics, or supply chain operations.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Expertise in route planning, fleet management, and supply chain coordination.
• Knowledge of ERP systems, TMS (Transport Management Systems), and GPS tracking solutions.
• Experience in managing P&L, budgeting, and cost optimization.
• Familiarity with transport regulations, customs clearance, and compliance requirements.

Skills & Competencies:

Strong Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills – Ability to optimize transport operations and resolve bottlenecks.

Leadership & Team Management – Proven ability to lead teams and manage multi-departmental coordination.

Customer Service & Communication – Strong client relationship management and negotiation skills.

Process Improvement & Innovation – Experience in implementing logistics automation and efficiency strategies.

Risk & Compliance Management – Deep understanding of safety regulations and risk assessment in logistics.

Resilience & Decision-Making – Ability to work under pressure and make data-driven operational decisions.