SA Operations Manager (Transport)

State Operations Manager | Transport & Logistics

Location: Northern Suburbs, Adelaide

Work Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Are you an experienced transport leader who understands that the success of a logistics business is dependent on its operational execution?

I have partnered with a premier national logistics provider currently expanding its footprint in South Australia. As they strengthen their core pillars in preparation for significant growth, they are seeking a State Operations Manager to lead their Adelaide depot.

This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who understands that while a warehouse is necessary, the real revenue is driven by wheels hitting the bitumen.

The Role:

The Adelaide site is a fast-paced cross-dock facility. Your primary focus will be the precision execution of freight delivery, with limited storage management for select key clients. You will be responsible for the P&L, safety, and operational excellence of the SA branch.

Key Responsibilities:

Transport & Fleet Management

• Oversee all linehaul and local distribution. You will manage driver scheduling, route optimization, and fleet maintenance to ensure maximum efficiency and "on-time" delivery performance.
• Ensure Supervisors are operating as per their required work standards and expectations. Provide your managers and supervisors with the appropriate resources and support,allowing them to effectively manage; staff levels, SOP’S, processes and systems across the following functions:
• Transport Margins / Route costs / Sub-Contractor invoicing and Interpretating Internal Reports

Warehouse & Cross-Dock Operations

• Lead the cross-docking function, ensuring rapid freight turnaround and managing limited inventory storage for specialized accounts.
• Investigating why this occurs and finding solutions to minimising rejected stock
• Understanding and improving the transport warehouse operations & functions

Safety & Compliance (NHVR):

• Champion a "Safety First" culture, strictly adhering to Chain of Responsibility (CoR), fatigue management, and Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) regulations.
• Guarantee compliance with and proper application of all OHS policies and procedures.
• Maintain rigorous document control for all reporting and ensure adherence to established reporting processes.
• Ensure regular, relevant safety toolbox discussions are conducted across all departments and maintain document control for all such discussions.

Strategic Growth:

• Support the national team in building out the "key pillars" of the SA business as the company scales its local presence.

Team Leadership:

• Recruit, mentor, and manage a diverse team of drivers and floor staff, fostering a culture of accountability and high performance.
• In conjunction with your managers, identify areas where additional training will improve the development of staff and productivity.
• Implement training plans for new, existing or potential leadership staff.

About You

You are a "hands-on" manager. You aren't afraid to jump in a truck or jump on a forklift if the operation requires it, but you have the strategic mindset to manage a complex P&L.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Licensing: Must hold a current Forklift License and a Heavy Vehicle License (HR highly desirable).
• Proven Leadership: Extensive experience managing transport operations, specifically within cross-docking or high-volume freight environments.
• Revenue Focus: A clear understanding that freight movement is the primary revenue driver, with the ability to manage costs and maximize vehicle utilization.
• Local Knowledge: Deep understanding of the South Australian transport landscape and northern Adelaide logistics hubs.
• Tech Savvy: Proficient in Transport Management Systems (TMS) and basic office software for reporting and analysis.

Why Join This Team?

• Growth Phase: Join at a critical time as the company expands its SA footprint—you will be instrumental in shaping the local operation.
• Direct Impact: Lead a lean, efficient cross-dock facility where your decisions directly affect the bottom line.
• Stability: Backed by a national network with a reputation for reliability and quality service.

How to Apply

If you are a transport professional who leads from the front and understands the intricacies of a freight-first operation, we want to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your experience in transport-heavy management roles.

For more information, please email Chanel Hirons on chanel.hirons@randstad.com.au or call on 0437491824 for a confidential discussion.

ARE YOU OPEN TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES OR KNOW SOMEONE?

I have partnered up with companies within Engineering, Defence, Manufacturing and Supply Chain industries who are looking for talented individuals who are looking for growth and development or masters admin or support - if this is you, I would love to hear from you!

At Randstad, we are passionate about providing equal employment opportunities and embracing diversity to the benefit of all. We actively encourage applications from any background.