Local Operations Manager - Drivers - Southern Operations

Freightliner is the UK's largest maritime intermodal logistics operator, transporting containers from all major deep-sea ports to our national network of inland terminals, as well as a leading operator in the UK Heavy Haul rail freight market. Freightliner has operations across Europe offering both Intermodal and Heavy Haul rail freight services seamlessly connecting European countries and the UK.

In the UK the Freightliner Group operates under a number of legal entities including, Freightliner Ltd, Pentalver Transport Ltd, and Pentalver Cannock Ltd.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

This is a permanent role ideally located at Eastleigh- alternatively Ipswich, Tilbury, London Gateway.

The Local Operations Manager (Driver) is accountable for the day‑to‑day welfare, people management, attendance, and engagement of a designated driver workforce, ensuring staff are supported, compliant, and effectively managed throughout the employment lifecycle.

The role provides visible, consistent leadership and ensures that driver welfare, conduct, attendance, and performance issues are managed proactively and lawfully.

The Local Operations Manager does not own or manage driver technical competence, assessments, or certification. These responsibilities sit with the Production Manager. Close collaboration is required where welfare and competence intersect (e.g. post‑incident care).

THE ROLE

A. Driver Welfare & Chain of Care (Primary Accountability)

Line management of drivers, ensuring welfare matters are addressed to conclusion

Conduct sickness and welfare contact within 24 hours of absence

Complete Return‑to‑Work interviews following all absences

Develop and manage phased return‑to‑work plans

Manage MFA placement, monitoring, and escalation

Liaise with HR and Occupational Health to ensure timely referrals and action plans

Ensure safeguarding, dignity, and confidentiality are always maintained.

B. Attendance, Conduct & Performance Management

Actively manage attendance, poor performance, and conduct issues

Apply disciplinary and grievance procedures in line with company policy and agreements

Conduct and document formal and informal reviews and warnings

Maintain accurate records and provide evidence based recommendations

Work with Trade Union representatives at local level as required

C. People Leadership & Engagement

Lead, motivate and support driver staff through visible leadership

Deliver regular briefings, safety communications and engagement events

Foster a high‑performing, customer‑focused team culture

Support employee development and apprenticeship engagement where applicable

Ensure equality, fairness, and emotional intelligence in all people decisions.

D. Interfaces with Production Manager (Competence)

Support welfare aspects of competence‑related incidents and investigations

Manage post‑incident welfare, fatigue, and fitness for duty discussions

Escalate concerns where welfare factors may impact competence

E. Operational & Resource Support

Work with rostering to manage efficient attendance and resource utilisation

Minimise reliance on free day working through proactive welfare planning

Support effective train service delivery through robust people management

Participate in on‑call and out‑of‑hours arrangements as required

F. Recruitment & Workforce Planning

Participate in driver recruitment interviews and selection panels

Provide recommendations based on behavioural and welfare considerations

Support onboarding and early‑stage welfare monitoring of new starters

Safety & Statutory Responsibilities

The post holder has day‑to‑day responsibility for:

The health, safety and welfare of all drivers within their reporting line

Compliance with the Health & Safety at Work Act and ROGS regulations

Ensuring welfare arrangements protect employees, rail users and the public

Maintaining a positive safety culture, ensuring behavioural standards are upheld

The LOM‑D must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others affected by their actions at work.

Incident & Emergency Responsibilities

Attend operational incidents when required

Manage immediate and post‑incident welfare support

Liaise with Control, HR, and Production Managers during incidents

Ensure staff involved in incidents receive appropriate follow‑up and monitoring

Participate in on‑call response rosters including weekends and nights

YOUR PROFILE

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

Experience managing staff in an operational or safety‑critical environment

Proven ability to manage attendance, welfare, and disciplinary processes

Experience working with Trade Unions

Understanding of Safety Management Systems and Rail Operating environments

Strong interpersonal, communication, and emotional intelligence skills

Qualifications & Requirements

Personal Track Safety (PTS)

Effective Incident Management training

Competence in investigations and evidence‑based reporting

IT competence (e.g. Microsoft Office, operational systems)

Full UK Driving Licence

Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and away from home if required.

Behavioural Competencies

Safety leadership as a first principle

Professional integrity and confidentiality

Fairness, independence, and resilience

Ability to influence and support others

Empathy, emotional regulation, and sound judgement

Our commitment to you, once you join our team, is to foster growth and provide developmental opportunities to ensure you reach your utmost potential.

We are looking for the most committed and reliable individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and experience needed for their roles.

In return we can offer competitive pay, excellent benefits, a competitive pension scheme and a rewarding career in an award-winning team.