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At the heart of the logistics and transport sector, which is booming with the explosion of e-commerce, the transport manager handles all a company’s transport operations effectively and proactively. This multi-faceted and strategic job is particularly suited to applicants who have experience in the sector. Join ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ Business School what and discover what this occupation involves, what skills and training are required, and how much you could earn.

What is the role of a transport manager?

The transport manager plays a crucial role in ensuring that transport operations run smoothly. They are responsible for implementing transport strategy and supervising operations, and their goal is to optimise the transport of goods transport through a logistics platform in line with the company's budget and specifications.

The transport manager’s role involves a wide range of managerial, technical and budgetary responsibilities. This professional is responsible for allocating resources, managing transport and optimising costs, while ensuring that deadlines are met and customers are satisfied.

Every day, this transport expert has to deal with a large number of people (delivery drivers, logistics manager, etc.) in order to coordinate the different stages of the logistics chain, from collection of the goods to final delivery.

What are the missions of a transport manager?

The transport manager defines and implements efficient and secure transport operations, including appointing appropriate service providers handling disputes or incidents, drafting calls for tenders, negotiation, and logistics planning.

They handle many aspects of the supply chain: they manage a team of delivery drivers, audit the quality of services, optimise human and material resources in line with demand, keep the vehicle fleet in good repair, and ensure compliance with delivery schedules and transport-related legislation (taxes, customs, insurance, etc.).

The transport manager uses performance measurement tools to ensure that transport operations are cost-effective in terms of quality, cost, deadlines and safety. In the area of logistics management, they play an advisory role, providing regular reports and helping to define transport strategy.

What technical skills does a transport manager need?

To carry out their missions successfully, transport managers need a thorough understanding of the logistics and transport sector, including market players, regulations, safety standards and employment law.

This expert is fully proficient in supply chain processes, project management and accounting. As a team leader, the transport manager must demonstrate good managerial skills and the ability to negotiate with service providers.

Proficiency in the use of transport management IT tools, fluency in English and the ability to anticipate changes in the sector are also essential factors for success in this profession.

What qualities does a transport manager need to have?

In addition to professional skills, a variety of personal aptitudes are required for this multi-faceted position. As they have many responsibilities, transport managers need to be well-organised, rigorous and able to act on initiative. In a job that involves constant pressure, the ability to cope with stress and the capacity to prioritise enable them to work on a just-in-time basis.

The ability to analyse, observe and anticipate is particularly valued. As they are in constant contact with their team and other people, they must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and a sense of customer service.

How much does a transport manager earn?

In a junior position, a transport manager can earn an average monthly salary of 2,300 euros. Over the course of their career, their average salary can reach 4,000 euros a month. A senior transport manager can expect to earn up to 8,000 euros a month. A transport manager’s salary varies depending on their experience, the scope of their responsibilities and the type of company.

What training do you need to become a transport manager?

Various 2- or 3-year university degrees in transport, logistics, purchasing or production management provide a route into a career as a transport manager. A 5-year university degree, such as a master’s with a specialisation in logistics and transport, is particularly appreciated by recruiters, and facilitates smoother career progression. It is also possible to follow a course at one of the Grandes Ecoles d’Ingénieurs or Grandes Ecoles de Commerce and take a transport option, which leads to a recognised logistics engineer qualification.

¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ business school offers a block release master’s degree in supply chain management which trains future graduates in the logistics and management methods they need when they enter the labour market. ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ’s specialised MBA is another way to prepare for the transport manager role. Students receive internationally focused training in management, project management, business negotiation and international commerce. Students can also choose a Grande École Programme, a comprehensive 5-year course during which they can specialise and potentially obtain dual international certification. What are the career prospects of a transport manager? During the course of their career, transport managers can aspire to positions such as operations manager in a transport company, transport operations manager or a role in general management. To widen their scope of responsibility, they can move to a similar position with another employer or become logistics or warehouse managers. Interested in a career overseas? Discover careers in international commerce. The range of courses offered at ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ and its Erasmus exchange programme offer opportunities for students who are looking to work in an international environment.

What are the career prospects of a transport manager?

During the course of their career, transport managers can aspire to positions such as operations manager in a transport company, transport operations manager or a role in general management. To widen their scope of responsibility, they can move to a similar position with another employer or become logistics or warehouse managers.

Interested in a career overseas? Discover careers in international commerce. The range of courses offered at ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ and its Erasmus exchange programme offer opportunities for students who are looking to work in an international environment.