Transport Operations Manager in Adelaide

DJ Wightman & Co Pty Ltd (Wightman Transport) has been delivering transport and logistics solutions to the refrigerated transport industry for over 60 years. We have built a strong reputation through long-standing customer relationships, reliable service and a commitment to safe and efficient transport operations. Our South Australian operation services more than 60 metropolitan and regional store locations, including some interstate deliveries, managing temperature-controlled freight and delivering approximately 500–600 loads per week.

We are seeking an experienced Transport Operations Manager to lead our established operation, develop our people and drive improvements in efficiency, productivity, service delivery and cost control.

About the role

Based at Edinburgh Parks, this is a key leadership position responsible for the effective management of our local and regional refrigerated transport operations. Working closely with the Management Team, Operations Coordinators, Schedulers, Drivers, Maintenance and Safety and Compliance, you will be accountable for ensuring the operation runs safely, efficiently and in line with customer expectations. This role requires a hands-on operational leader who can assess existing processes, establish clear accountabilities, develop team capability and translate operational data into measurable performance improvements.

Key responsibilities

• Operational leadership: Oversee daily transport operations, including fleet utilisation, scheduling, resource allocation and delivery performance.
• People leadership: Lead, support and develop a team of Operations Coordinators and Schedulers, overseeing a driver pool of approximately 85 drivers.
• Customer service and KPIs: Monitor customer performance measures, service standards and delivery requirements, ensuring agreed KPIs are achieved.
• Continuous improvement: Identify operational inefficiencies, implement practical improvements and drive greater productivity across the operation.
• Cost management: Monitor operational costs, driver and fleet utilisation, and resource allocation to improve cost efficiency without compromising safety or service.
• Safety and compliance: Work collaboratively with the Safety and Compliance Manager to maintain high standards of safety, regulatory compliance and operational accountability.
• Fleet coordination: Liaise with the Maintenance Manager to support effective fleet availability, servicing and maintenance planning.
• Stakeholder management: Build effective working relationships with customers, drivers, suppliers and internal stakeholders to support reliable service delivery.
• Performance management: Establish clear expectations, monitor results, address performance concerns and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Communication Skills: Be able to communicate, negotiate and apply conflict resolution skills with a demonstrated ability to manage performance issues effectively.

About you

You are an experienced transport professional with a strong understanding of road transport operations and the leadership capability to manage a complex, high-volume operation. You will bring:

• Demonstrated experience in a transport operations management or similar senior operational leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of road transport operations, industry regulations, safety requirements and compliance obligations.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop teams while setting clear expectations and maintaining accountability.
• Experience managing transport scheduling, fleet utilisation, driver resources and customer service requirements.
• A demonstrated ability to analyse operational performance, manage costs and implement process improvements.
• Strong communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills, including the ability to manage performance issues professionally.
• Confidence using transport management systems, telematics and operational reporting tools.
• A professional, customer-focused approach, with sound judgement, integrity and the ability to make informed operational decisions.
• Relevant qualifications in logistics, transport or supply chain management will be highly regarded.

What we offer

• An established Australian transport business with more than 60 years of industry experience.
• The opportunity to lead a significant, high-volume refrigerated transport operation.
• A professional team environment with support from experienced management and operational personnel.
• A challenging leadership role with scope to influence operational performance and business outcomes.
• The opportunity to implement improvements and contribute to the ongoing growth of the business.
• An attractive remuneration package commensurate with experience.
• A commitment to a supportive working environment and work-life balance.

Ready to make an impact? If you are an experienced transport leader who can bring structure, accountability and a continuous improvement mindset to a busy transport operation, we would welcome your application. Join DJ Wightman & Co Pty Ltd and play a key role in delivering safe, reliable and efficient transport solutions for our customers.

To be considered for this opportunity, you must have full and unrestricted working rights for Australia. Sponsorship is not available. No agencies or third parties please.