Transportation Manager

A leading retail organization is seeking an experienced Transport Manager to lead and develop its end-to-end transport and fleet function across a large, multi-site retail distribution network in the UAE.This is a department leadership role, not a dispatch or field-operations position. The successful candidate will be responsible for setting the transport strategy, driving operational performance, managing fleet and MHE availability, optimizing costs, leading continuous improvement, developing the 3PL strategy, and building a high-performing transport team.Key ResponsibilitiesTransport Strategy & PerformanceOwn and develop the transport and fleet KPI framework, setting targets and driving measurable performance improvement.Lead structured continuous improvement and root-cause analysis initiatives to improve service, cost and operational efficiency.Develop annual transport budgets and capacity plans, aligning fleet and manpower requirements with business growth.Translate retail volumes, promotions, peak seasons and new store openings into effective transport capacity and service plans.Fleet & MHE ManagementOwn vehicle and MHE availability, uptime and operational readiness through external maintenance contracts.Manage maintenance contractors, including scope, pricing, SLAs and performance.Technically assess maintenance requirements and invoices, challenging unnecessary work and ensuring cost effectiveness.Manage maintenance schedules, downtime and fleet lifecycle decisions, including utilization, replacement and disposal.Transport OperationsLead daily delivery operations across multiple Distribution Centres, ensuring on-time, in-full and damage-free deliveries.Optimize routing, scheduling, loading, fleet utilization and delivery capacity.Oversee staff bus and labour transport operations with a strong focus on service and safety.People LeadershipLead and develop a team of 70+ drivers and transport coordinators.Own workforce planning, recruitment, attendance, leave planning and performance management.Establish clear operating standards and build a culture of accountability and data-driven performance.Technology & InnovationIdentify and implement fleet technology including telematics, TMS, route optimization, fuel management and maintenance systems.Use data and technology to improve visibility, productivity, cost and service levels.3PL & Commercial ManagementDevelop and implement the 3PL strategy, including provider selection, contracting, SLAs and commercial negotiations.Manage 3PL performance against agreed service, cost and operational KPIs.Compliance & SafetyEnsure compliance with applicable UAE and Abu Dhabi transport, fleet and driver regulations.Oversee vehicle registration, insurance, permits, licensing, fines and toll management.Drive transport safety performance and reduce preventable incidents.