Nights Transport Team Manager

The role

Our South Ockendon Regional Service Centre plays a pivotal role in ensuring stores stay fully stocked, and our online customers receive the exceptional service they expect from NEXT. Working closely with the Transport Assistant Site Manager on a 4 on, 4 off night shift rotation (20:00-08:00), you will be right at the heart of our fast-paced, time-critical transport operation. With a competitive salary of c£41,000 (£17.64 per hour plus London Weighting), plus shift premiums of 20% between 22:00-06:00 and weekend shift premiums of 10% along with a host of other benefits, this position presents a great opportunity to join the UK’s leading retailer and develop your career. This is a dynamic, varied role where you will make a real difference by keeping the night shift running smoothly, safely, and cost-effectively. From day one, you’ll be part of a supportive management team with all the training and backing you need to lead your shift with confidence.

What you'll take on

It is your job to ensure the day-shift team is well-organised, highly motivated, and fully trained to hit operational efficiency targets safely. On a day-to-day basis, you will:

• Lead and inspire: Manage, train, and coach a dedicated team of LGV and Van Drivers, keeping morale high and performance on track.
• Maintain high standards: Ensure full adherence to statutory road transport legislation, O-licence requirements, and NEXT company policies.
• Manage compliance: Actively monitor driver hours and closely control tachograph infringements.
• Plan for success: Oversee daily and weekly plans to achieve operational targets and continually monitor team performance.
• Promote safety: Monitor and investigate any accidents or incidents, identifying the root cause and implementing smart recommendations to keep our workplace safe.

What you'll bring

To thrive in our fast-paced, 24-hour operation, you will need to think on your feet, act independently, and stay calm under pressure. We are looking for:

• Strong leadership: Proven people management skills with the ability to lead, support, and get the very best out of your team.
• Industry expertise: Solid experience working within a busy transport function, bringing a thorough understanding of road transport legislation, O-licence compliance, and Driver hours regulations.
• Problem-solving skills: The confidence to make sound operational decisions in changing priorities and search out proactive solutions.
• Great communication: The ability to collaborate effectively with your team and wider management, managing busy moments with an organised and positive approach.

You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 44,000 people across the Next group. We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 450 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy on-line from over 80 countries around the world! So we’ve gone global!