Assistant Manager

Job Purpose:

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented
Assistant Manager - Transport & Fleet
to support the effective and safe operation of transportation services across our group of schools and nurseries. This role works closely with the Head of Transport & Fleet to ensure that all student and staff transport services are reliable, efficient, and compliant with regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will excel in operational coordination, fleet oversight, customer service, and problem-solving, while contributing to continuous improvement and service excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Transport Operations Management

• Support daily operations of School & ECC buses, shuttle services, and transport routes.
• Assist with planning, scheduling, and adjusting transport routes to ensure punctuality and safety.
• Monitor transport schedules, routing plans, student lists, and GPS tracking systems.
• Respond promptly to route delays, operational disruptions, and emergencies, escalating when necessary.
• Assist with documentation related to daily operations, route changes, and attendance.

2. Fleet Management & Maintenance

• Coordinate vehicle registration, inspections, service schedules, and maintenance follow-ups.
• Assist in implementing preventive maintenance plans to reduce breakdowns and downtime.
• Conduct regular checks to ensure vehicles consistently meet safety and compliance standards.
• Maintain accurate fleet records aligned with RTA and organisational requirements.

3. Safety, Compliance & Risk Management

• Support adherence to all internal transport policies, RTA regulations, and compliance standards.
• Assist in conducting safety audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
• Support driver and bus attendant safety training and reinforce a strong safety culture.
• Monitor and uphold child safeguarding protocols on all buses.

4. Budgeting & Cost Control

• Track and report on fuel usage, maintenance costs, and vendor invoices.
• Support cost-efficiency initiatives through data analysis and vendor coordination.
• Prepare operational reports to assist the Head of Transport & Fleet with budgeting and cost control.

5. Leadership & Team Development

• Assist in supervising drivers, bus attendants, transport coordinators, and support staff.
• Help maintain adequate staffing for routes and school events.
• Support performance evaluations, training, and continuous development of the transport team.
• Promote a positive working environment and professional service standards.

6. Stakeholder Engagement & Customer Service

• Serve as a secondary contact for parents, school leaders, and internal departments.
• Address inquiries, concerns, and operational requests professionally and promptly.
• Coordinate with schools on route adjustments, events, field trips, and operational needs.
• Gather and escalate feedback to support ongoing service improvements.

7. Strategic Development

• Support the implementation of transportation procedures, policies, and operational standards.
• Assist in projects such as route optimisation, digitisation, sustainability initiatives, and fleet updates.
• Contribute insights and data to long-term operational planning and reporting.

Job Specification:

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Transport Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 4 - 6 years of experience in transport operations or fleet management; experience within education or large multi-site operations is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of transport regulations, fleet maintenance processes, and RTA compliance.
• Excellent organisational, analytical, and coordination skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and transport management software.
• Valid UAE driver's license.
• Experience with GPS tracking systems, route optimisation tools, or transport management platforms is preferred.

Interested candidates can apply on our website