Head of Transport - UK & Nordics

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Duties

We have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Transport (UK and Nordics). In this role, you will be responsible for leading and driving transport operations across these regions.

The role focuses on developing and implementing efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable transport strategies that meet both organisational objectives and regulatory standards. This includes managing logistics networks, overseeing third-party providers, management of an own fleet operation and driving continuous improvements in service quality, safety, and compliance.

With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, operational efficiency and innovation, the Head of Transport plays a key role in delivering reliable, scalable transport solutions while ensuring environmental and financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks

1. Accountability for performance management of your regions’ 3PL contracts
2. Provide direction, focus and leadership for your team which includes a number of remote workers and newly qualified transport professionals
3. The preparation of annual budgets for your region and support the wider functions budget preparation.
4. The ongoing development of internal and external customer service levels to include OTIF, 3PL service levels and cross-functional team support across all geographies in your region
5. To be an effective team member of the wider Univar transport function and share ideas and best practice around the network.
6. To take corrective actions as appropriate to recover budget deficits along with detailed understanding of Annual Operating Plan (AOP) and budgets.
7. To liaise with business teams to ensure that realistic strategies are produced and executed in order to reduce cost, support EBITDA or Return On Sales growth or reduce risk.
8. To ensure that all capital expenditure is part of a clearly thought out plan of development, clearly presented for approval and controlled and delivered to plan
9. To recruit and select suitable staff and manage through their career journey
10. To communicate effectively between line and functional management to other General/Business management up and down management lines
11. Through leadership and active involvement ensure compliance to: - Statutory requirements, Quality procedures, Responsible care, Insurance requirements, and Company policy statements including employment and disciplinary procedures
12. Co-operate on all matters concerned with Health, Safety, Training, Legislation and the Environment
13. Responsible to support the management of the own vehicle fleet and comply with all legislation requirements

We Are Looking For

Education:

• A degree in logistics, supply chain management, transport management, or a related field
• Professional qualifications such as CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) in Transport Management or equivalent

Experience:

• Proven track record in a senior transport or logistics leadership role, ideally within the UK and/or Nordic regions
• Experience in managing multi-modal transport operations (road, rail and sea)
• Familiarity with transport regulations, compliance, and industry standards

Technical Knowledge:

• Deep understanding of transport management systems (TMS) and supply chain technologies
• Knowledge of sustainability initiatives and best practices in transport operations

Leadership and Management:

• Ability to lead, motivate, and develop diverse teams across multiple locations
• Strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills with third-party providers and partners

Strategic Thinking:

• Competence in developing and implementing regional transport strategies aligned with organisational goals
• Analytical and data-driven approach to problem-solving and decision-making

Operational Excellence:

• Expertise in optimising logistics networks for efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Proficiency in managing budgets and financial performance within transport operations

Compliance and Safety:

• Strong understanding of health and safety standards in transport
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and commitment to sustainable transport practices

Communication and Collaboration:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; additional Nordic language skills are advantageous
• Ability to collaborate across departments and with international teams

Adaptability and Innovation:

• Ability to adapt to regional challenges and cultural nuances in the UK and Nordics
• Enthusiasm for leveraging technology and innovation to drive operational improvements

Univar Solutions is a leading, global distributor of chemicals and ingredients essential to the safety, health, and wellbeing of our daily lives - from life-saving medicines and vitamins to hand sanitizers and industrial materials used for cleaning, construction, and more. Our global team of more than 10,000 employees support our vision to redefine distribution and be the most valued chemical and ingredient distributor on the planet!

We offer a Total Rewards package that includes market aligned pay and incentives as well as a diverse benefits offering to support our employees’ physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing.

Univar Solutions supports sustainable solutions for the world around us so that we can do our part to help keep our communities healthy, fed, clean, and safe!

We are committed to a diverse workforce and a culture of inclusion. Together, we are building a culture that acknowledges and respects the unique experiences, perspectives, and expertise of every employee. Through our dedicated Employee Resource Networks, we provide the development and growth opportunities to empower us to redefine our industry while making a difference in our communities.

Univar Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on their race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected classification.