Transport Operations Manager

What you’ll do

• We are looking for an experienced Transport Operations Manager - Southern Region to join our Supply Chain team. Reporting to the Head of Transport, you'll drive transport performance across our Southern Region network, leading initiatives that improve safety, service, cost efficiency and operational consistency. Working closely with Distribution Centre leaders, Customer Service, Finance, Safety and Compliance teams, and external carrier partners, you will have a 'hands on approach' and oversee despatch and returns operations, optimise transport performance, manage carrier relationships and deliver continuous improvement initiatives that create value for both the business and our customers. Key Responsibilities but not limited to: Deliver transport cost-out and productivity initiatives across last-mile operations, improving route efficiency, load utilisation and delivery performance Manage despatch and returns operations across the Melbourne Distribution Centre (MDC), Adelaide Fulfilment Centre (AFC), Perth Distribution Centre (PDC) and Launceston Distribution Centre (LDC), ensuring on-time, in-full despatch and accurate returns processing Lead the Southern Region transport project plan, including despatch and route reviews, carrier rate reviews, overflow options and Priceline seasonal transport Manage carrier contract performance, including driver arrivals, despatch performance, return freight, claims investigations and service improvements Coach transport planners and site teams on planning discipline, despatch processes, carrier handovers and exception management, while embedding transport SOPs and best practices Drive continuous improvement initiatives and practical problem-solving activities to improve service, compliance and cost outcomes across the transport network Support Safety Leadership and Chain of Responsibility (CoR) compliance through team engagement, hazard identification, incident management and CoR investigations Please note this role is based on site at our Dandenong Distribution Centre What you’ll bring: 7+ years' experience in transport, FMCG, or last-mile logistics operations Proven track record delivering transport route optimisation and cost reduction initiatives Strong analytical, reporting, and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into action Practical understanding of last-mile routing, scheduling, and telematics (desirable) Experience managing carrier and contract performance, including driver scheduling and on-time compliance Experience in high-volume, multi-site distribution environments Sound understanding of site safety requirements and Chain of Responsibility obligations Experience conducting DILO (Day in the Life Of) reviews and driving site layout/process improvements (desirable) Willingness and ability to travel regularly to Distribution Centres across Melbourne, Launceston, Adelaide, and Perth Bachelor's qualification in Logistics, Transport, Supply Chain, Business, or a related discipline (preferred) Lean / Continuous Improvement certification (desirable) Why us? Access to employee benefits across Wesfarmers including team member discounts at Bunnings, Kmart, Target, Officeworks, OnePass, Priceline, atomica, Instantscripts and Clear Skincare Clinics Ongoing professional development and career opportunities across the Wesfarmers Health Division and the broader Wesfarmers Group Novated leasing options Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - available to all team members and their immediate family members, 24/7, 365 days a year Beautiful outdoor terrace for work and recreation Food, coffee and health & wellbeing facilities onsite including a landlord operated gym Dedicated end of trip facilities (cycle racks, showers, lockers) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants Wesfarmers Health aims to become an employer of choice for First Nations Australians, through investments that attract, empower and retain First Nations team members within our stores, distribution centres, clinics and corporate offices. As part of the Wesfarmers group, we provide authentic support through a diverse range of programs and initiatives, designed to empower you on your journey towards personal achievement and professional advancement.