Road transport manager apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a university coursean apprenticeshipworking towards this roleapplying directly
University
Transport manager roles are open to all graduates. A foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in the following subjects may give you an advantage:
- logistics
- supply chain management
- transport management
- business management
You can also do a postgraduate course if you have a relevant degree.
After you finish your studies, you can apply for a place on a graduate transport management trainee scheme.
You'll find transport manager roles in both the private and public sector and in many industries, from retail to engineering and passenger transport.
You'll usually need 1 or 2 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma. You'll need 2 to 3 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a degree. You'll need a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study.
Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a passenger transport operations manager higher apprenticeship if you're working for a passenger transport company.
You could also start out by doing a supply chain practitioner Level 3 apprenticeship. This will give you some of the skills and knowledge needed to work as assistant transport manager in areas like fast moving consumer goods, for example food and drink, or retail.
You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for a Level 3 apprenticeship. You'll need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A-Levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
Work
You could develop your transport skills as a driver, team leader or administrator. With training and experience you could then apply for a road transport manager's job.
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs. You'll be expected to have experience and qualifications in road transport. Having a good knowledge of the road network and an understanding of transport rules and regulations will give you an advantage.
Experience of using specialist transport management software can also help.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and United Kingdom Warehousing Association for professional recognition and training opportunities.
Road transport manager apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- customer service skills
- business management skills
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- leadership skills
- knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
- the ability to work well with others
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Restrictions and Requirements
You may need to get a Certificate of Professional Competence (a Driver CPC) if you're the operator of a haulage or transport business.
Road transport manager apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you could:
- work with suppliers and customers, plan routes and schedule delivery times
- manage a team of supervisors, administration staff and drivers
- make sure the operation meets its targets
- co-ordinate staff training
- make sure drivers follow company and industry regulations
- put together performance reports for directors
- arrange vehicle maintenance, MOTs and tax payments
- organise vehicle replacements
- manage contracts and develop new business
Working environment
You could work in an office or at a client's business.
Career path and progression - Road transport manager apprenticeships
With experience, you could specialise in other types of transport like rail, sea or air.
You could also move into transport planning and consultancy.