Central Transport Planner

Central Transport Planner

Hybrid

£29,257.58

As a Central Transport Planner, you’ll be responsible for planning and coordinating the daily transport activities that keep our mill operations running smoothly. Working within our central logistics team, you’ll ensure the efficient movement of Paper and Fibre transportation for DS Smiths Logistics service provision commitment.

You’ll use transport management systems and analytical tools to optimise routes, maximise vehicle utilisation, and reduce costs — all while maintaining our high standards of safety and compliance.

The role will require good communication at various levels of the business, and will require strong peer-group links between Paper, Recycling, Packaging, Paper Supply and Procurement.

Key Responsibilities

The CTP Planner must have an established Logistics network understanding along with excellent day-to-day operational knowledge of UK transport operations. They must be adept in the planning of a large 24/7 in-house fleet that is supported by sub-contract facilities.

• Plan and schedule transport operations for inbound and outbound materials across the DS Smith network
• Work closely with production, logistics, and customer service teams to align transport with operational needs
• Optimise fleet usage and subcontractor performance to meet service and cost targets
• Monitor transport performance, resolve issues, and implement continuous improvements
• Maintain accurate data within the transport management system and produce daily/weekly reports
• Ensure all transport activities comply with legal, safety, and environmental standards
• Support the implementation of sustainability initiatives within the logistics function

Person Specification

• Experience in transport planning, logistics coordination, or supply chain operations (preferably in manufacturing or distribution)
• Strong understanding of UK transport regulations and compliance standards
• Proficient in using transport management systems (TMS) and Microsoft Excel
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing priorities
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• CPC qualification (National or International).
• Experience with large-scale industrial or paper manufacturing environments
• Knowledge of sustainability or carbon reduction initiatives in logistics
• Familiarity with SAP or similar ERP systems

What we can offer you:

• Competitive salary
• Qualifying Sick Pay scheme
• Pension scheme & Life insurance
• Share Save scheme
• Income Protection
• 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Virtual GP, Occupational Health & free Flu vaccine
• Cycle to Work and shopping discounts

We are DS Smith, together with International Paper, we are a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions and other fibre-based products. We believe a better, more sustainable tomorrow is possible with the right people, who challenge and support one another to enact positive change. We employ more than 65,000 colleagues in North America and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), who are experts in innovation, manufacturing, design, sales, sustainability, supply chain, and much more. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Become part of a world-leading organisation and do your best work with us!

“To fulfil our purpose of redefining packaging for a changing world, we aim to build a diverse, motivated, and engaged workforce. Our goal is to create a culture of inclusion where everyone is treated fairly, differences are valued, and everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. 
 
Our people come from diverse backgrounds, bring different perspectives, ideas and experiences to generate unique solutions focused on present and future sustainability challenges. We welcome all candidates to apply, even those not meeting all criteria.”

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