Job Description:

Transport Planner

Location: Hartlepool
Salary: Competitive (DOE)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 5:30pm

Jackson Hogg are delighted to be recruiting on behalf of a fast-paced distributor based in Hartlepool, as they look to appoint a Transport Planner to support their growing logistics operation.

This is an excellent opportunity for an organised and commercially aware individual to join a dynamic team, playing a key role in ensuring efficient and compliant delivery operations.

Role Overview

The Transport Planner (Transport Router) will be responsible for designing safe, efficient, and legally compliant delivery routes for tanker operations. This role is critical in balancing operational efficiency, customer demands, and regulatory requirements, while also responding to real-time challenges and supporting drivers.

Key Responsibilities

Route Planning & Optimisation

• Plan cost-effective and efficient delivery routes across one or multiple depots
• Ensure compliance with all legal requirements including ADR, driver hours, and site restrictions
• Maximise vehicle utilisation while meeting customer delivery windows
• Manage tanker and compartment allocation based on product and delivery requirements
• Coordinate depot replenishment in line with operational demand and company policy
• Monitor live transport operations and respond to issues such as traffic delays, breakdowns, or emergencies
• Re-optimise routes in real-time to maintain service levels
• Manage late orders and same-day delivery requests
• Maintain clear communication with drivers throughout the day

Stakeholder Communication

• Clearly communicate route plans, updates, and issues with drivers and internal teams
• Liaise with sales, supply chain, and customer service teams regarding delivery schedules and capacity
• Escalate issues in a timely and professional manner
• Support continuous improvement through feedback and collaboration

Performance & Commercial Awareness

• Balance operational costs with service delivery expectations
• Monitor KPIs such as on-time delivery, drops per vehicle, kilometres per drop, and failed deliveries
• Make informed decisions based on customer priorities and service level agreements

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong logical thinking and route sequencing ability
• Calm decision-making under pressure
• High attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving skills and commercial awareness
• Clear and confident communicator
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in routing software, telematics, and planning systems

Knowledge & Experience (Desirable)

• Previous experience in transport planning
• Knowledge of driver hours regulations and transport compliance

Development & Progression

• Ongoing training in advanced routing and optimisation
• Exposure to wider transport operations, including compliance and customer service
• Opportunities to contribute to continuous improvement and efficiency projects
• Cross-training across depots and regions