Hunter Campbell’s Mastering Supply Chain Series profiles jobs within the Supply Chain job family including jobs in demand, salaries, and employment prospects.
In this article, the role of Transport Manager is in the spotlight.
Purpose of the Role
A Transport Manager plays a crucial role in the ‘Move’ function of the supply chain, overseeing the accurate and timely movement of goods from suppliers to final destinations. For in-house operations, a Transport Manager often works within a manufacturing or distribution company, managing the logistics of raw materials to production facilities and coordinating finished goods to warehouses or 3PL partners. This role may involve overseeing a company fleet or contracted transport, handling route planning, fleet optimisation, cost management, and collaborating with S&OP teams to ensure seamless supply chain movement.
In contrast, an external Transport Manager operates within specialist transport providers, focusing on moving goods on behalf of multiple clients. This requires expertise in route planning to optimise delivery schedules, load planning for efficient linehaul operations, and managing driver contracts, whether employing drivers directly or engaging Owner Drivers. Working with transport management systems (TMS) is essential for planning, cost control, and ensuring high service levels for various customers. An external Transport Manager may also handle fleet maintenance and regulatory compliance, contributing to the broader network’s efficiency.
The Transport Manager’s responsibilities have seen an expansion in recent years, with a significant focus on technology, sustainability, risk management, and meeting rising customer expectations. Integrating telematics, managing environmental compliance, and strategising for resilience against global disruptions have become core tasks. Transport Managers now oversee workforce planning, especially in light of driver shortages, and must uphold high standards for safety, cybersecurity, and customer transparency. Whether in-house or external, today’s Transport Managers are central to ensuring a streamlined, cost-efficient, and responsive supply chain.
Recruitment Forecast 2025
The role of an experienced Transport Manager remains crucial, particularly as the industry faces a persistent skills shortage, leaving fewer qualified professionals at the senior level. As businesses shift their focus to targeted cost-cutting over the next 12 months, demand is growing for Transport Managers who can drive efficiencies throughout the supply chain. Companies are increasingly recognising the impact that an effective Transport Manager can have on their operations and bottom line.
The role of Transport Manager will continue to evolve with advancements in technology, with a stronger emphasis on practical transport expertise combined with analytical skills and system proficiency to enhance performance. This includes optimising fuel consumption, route planning, fleet management, and team leadership to drive continuous improvements.
A renewed focus on sustainability and green logistics is expected to be a priority once economic conditions stabilise. Transport Managers who can blend operational knowledge with a commitment to eco-friendly practices will be particularly valuable as companies adapt to future industry demands.
Career Prospects
The career pathway for a Transport Manager varies widely based on company size, industry, and whether the role is inhouse or external. In larger organisations, particularly those with multiple sites across New Zealand, there is potential for progression from site-level management to Regional or even National Transport Manager roles, creating structured growth opportunities within the field.
For in-house Transport Managers, career advancement can include stepping into national roles or expanding responsibilities to encompass Logistics and Warehousing. Depending on the business’s scale, these professionals may eventually progress to General Manager Operations or higher-level leadership roles, particularly as they develop a broad, strategic view of the supply chain.
With ongoing labour shortages, companies may face fierce competition for skilled professionals, prompting them to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain top talent.
Qualifications
Transport Managers can come from a range of backgrounds, making it a versatile role with many pathways for progression.
We have seen many successful Transport Managers rise through the ranks by starting in entry-level roles, such as driving or dispatch roles, and working their way up into leadership. This hands-on experience is highly valued, given the practical demands of the industry. More recently, we’ve seen more candidates entering the field through university pathways, gaining experience across transport and logistics roles before moving into management.
Certifications play a key role in building expertise, with programs like the CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional) from NZPICS offering comprehensive coverage of transport and logistics management. Many Transport Managers hold certifications in Health and Safety, alongside leadership training, to meet the demands of their role.
Key Skills Required
A successful Transport Manager is typically practical by nature and excels in leading from the front. In this role, you oversee large teams, so engaging proactively and prioritising Health and Safety is essential. Strong leadership involves working seamlessly with a broad range of stakeholders—from drivers and operators to customers, suppliers, and C-suite executives. The ability to influence and lead across these levels is a critical skill for effective transport management.
Strong negotiation skills in contract management and commercial relationships are vital. There’s also a growing demand for Transport Managers skilled in TMS (Transport Management Systems) and telematics, using an analytical approach to drive efficiency and performance across transport operations.
Salary Guide
This information is anecdotal and based on roles Hunter Campbell is currently recruiting or has previously recruited and relate to base salaries. They do not include any additional bonuses or benefits.
- Intermediate: $130,000 – $150,000
- Advanced: $150,000 – $200,000
- National/Regional: $200,000 – $250,000
The salaries of Transport Managers can vary considerably depending on responsibilities and the functions they are responsible for.
If you would like to find out more about the role of a Transport Manager, please contact consultant Joe Francis. Joe specialises in the recruitment of Supply Chain, Distribution and Logistics. For more news and views, visit our website by clicking here, see what opportunities we have available here or follow us on LinkedIn.
