Transportation Manager

About the role

We are a leading retail organisation in the UAE seeking an experienced Transportation Manager to lead and develop our end‑to‑end transport and fleet function across a multi‑site distribution network. This senior leadership role focuses on strategy, performance, fleet availability and continuous improvement rather than day‑to‑day dispatch.

Key responsibilities

• Define and own the transport and fleet KPI framework, set targets and drive measurable performance improvements.
• Lead continuous‑improvement and root‑cause analysis initiatives to enhance service, reduce cost and boost operational efficiency.
• Develop annual transport budgets, capacity plans and align fleet and manpower with business growth, promotions and new store openings.
• Manage vehicle and MHE availability, maintenance contracts, schedules, lifecycle decisions and cost‑effective repairs.
• Oversee daily delivery operations across multiple distribution centres, ensuring on‑time, in‑full and damage‑free deliveries while optimizing routing and fleet utilisation.
• Lead a team of 70+ drivers and transport coordinators, handling workforce planning, recruitment, attendance, leave and performance management.
• Identify, implement and leverage fleet technologies such as telematics, TMS, route optimisation, fuel management and maintenance systems.

Required profile

• Proven experience in a senior transport or fleet leadership role within a retail or multi‑site distribution environment.
• Strong track record of developing and executing transport strategy and managing large teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage external maintenance contracts and control costs.
• Excellent analytical skills with a focus on data‑driven decision making.

Required skills

• Fuel Management
• MHE Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Route Optimization
• Transport Strategy
• TMS (Transport Management System)
• Maintenance Systems
• Telematics