Depot General Manager

Llanelli, Dyfed
Freight Personnel

Job description: General Manager role for a well established and growing Pallet Distribution and Full Load business based in the Swansea region of South Wales.

Job Purpose:
To provide full leadership and direction across the transport operation-ensuring safe, legal, and efficient delivery of services while growing profitability, maintaining strong customer relationships, and driving continuous improvement. This role is the senior-most position in the company day-to-day and acts as the central link between the business and the Board.

Key responsibilities:

Business & Operational Leadership
– Lead and oversee all business functions including transport operations, fleet, compliance, HR, finance, and customer service.
– Set and monitor business KPIs, budgets, and performance targets in alignment with Pallet business board strategy.
– Ensure optimal use of vehicles, people, and technology to deliver operational excellence.
– Lead change projects (e.g., digitisation, process improvement, cost saving, new business integration).

Commercial Strategy & Financial Oversight
– Deliver profitability targets, managing cost control, pricing models, and commercial decisions.
– Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting to the Board.
– Develop and maintain supplier relationships and cost-effective procurement practices.

Team Leadership & People Development
– Build a strong company culture with high standards and a supportive, motivated team.
– Management of circa 35 staff including Supervisors, Traffic Ops, Planning, Warehouse, Payroll, Admin and Drivers
– Line manage department heads or directly manage small operational and admin teams.
– Lead recruitment, succession planning, training, and performance management processes.

Customer & Market Development
– Act as the face of the business for key clients, ensuring strong commercial partnerships.
– Identify new business opportunities and strategic customer development.
– Oversee pricing, contracts, and customer satisfaction across the business.

Compliance, Risk & Governance
– Hold overall accountability for health & safety, transport legislation, and regulatory compliance.
– Ensure systems and audits are in place for DVSA, insurance, environmental and employment law requirements.
– Maintain professional relationships with external bodies.

Continuous Improvement & Innovation
– Champion a culture of learning, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
– Implement systems that improve visibility, data insight, and business control.
– Report regularly to the Board on performance, risks, and strategic opportunities.