Transport Workshop Manager
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 14, 2026. First seen by Alion on Nov 13, 2026. Smiths Gloucester scores C on the Alion truth index.
Smiths is seeking an experienced and driven Transport Workshop Manager to lead our in-house HGV maintenance operation based in Gloucester.
This is a senior leadership role responsible for the safe, compliant, efficient and cost-effective management of a diverse fleet of approximately 150 commercial vehicles and 50 trailers, supporting a range of waste management, recycling and transport operations across the business.
Reporting to the Logistics Director and forming part of the Logistics Senior Management Team, you will lead a skilled workshop operation, drive fleet reliability, champion compliance and develop a high-performing team focused on safety, quality and continuous improvement.
About the Role
You will have overall responsibility for the operation of our HGV workshop facilities, including management of:
A fleet of approximately 150 commercial vehicles and 50 trailers
Workshop operations and maintenance activities
A team of supervisors, technicians, apprentices and workshop administration staff
A satellite workshop operation in Cardiff
External maintenance providers, parts suppliers and manufacturer service partners
Fleet compliance, maintenance planning and MOT preparation
Breakdown management and vehicle off-road (VOR) performance
Workshop budgets, supplier relationships and operational efficiency
Working closely with the wider Logistics team, you will also contribute to fleet specification, vehicle purchasing decisions and long-term fleet replacement planning.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the safe and compliant maintenance of the Smiths HGV fleet
Ensure all servicing, inspections and maintenance activities are completed to the highest standards
Drive workshop productivity, efficiency and vehicle availability
Manage fleet compliance in line with Operator Licence requirements
Oversee MOT preparation and improve first-time pass rates
Develop a preventative maintenance culture that improves reliability and reduces downtime
Lead and develop workshop supervisors, technicians and apprentices
Monitor workshop performance through KPIs, reporting and data analysis
Manage breakdown response and minimise operational disruption
Oversee parts management, supplier performance and maintenance expenditure
Promote a strong health and safety culture throughout the workshop operation
About You
We are looking for a proven fleet engineering professional with strong technical expertise and experience managing large-scale HGV workshop operations.
You will ideally have:
Significant experience managing a busy HGV workshop operation, either in-house or through third-party facilities
Strong technical knowledge of commercial vehicle maintenance, including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems
Experience managing mixed HGV fleets
Experience of MOT preparation and fleet compliance requirements
A City & Guilds, NVQ or equivalent qualification in Fleet Engineering or Heavy Vehicle Maintenance
IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent health and safety training
Strong leadership and people management skills
Excellent planning, organisational and problem-solving abilities
Commercial awareness and experience managing operational performance
Good IT skills and experience using workshop management systems
The ability to build effective relationships with colleagues, suppliers and external partners
Benefits
Permanent contract
Life Assurance Scheme
Support of an experienced team
Earn Additional Annual Leave with Length of Service
Free on-site Parking
Corporate gym membership discount
Annual Salary Review
Employee discount (50% on Skip Hire, other discounts on group services)
PPE provided
Progression opportunities
24 hour unlimited access to mental health support
What We're Looking For
You'll be a practical and resilient leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering high standards. You will be passionate about continuous improvement, committed to developing people and focused on creating a workshop operation that is safe, efficient and future-ready.
If you're looking for the opportunity to lead a significant fleet maintenance operation and play a key role in the ongoing success of a growing business, we'd love to hear from you.