Depot & Transfer Station Manager – Sunderland
A quick look at the role
We’re looking for an experienced Depot & Transfer Station Manager to lead our Sunderland operation, taking overall responsibility for the safe, compliant, efficient and commercially successful running of the depot and transfer station.
You’ll lead from the front, ensuring health & safety, environmental and Operator Licence compliance are at the heart of the operation, while delivering excellent customer service and achieving key operational and financial targets.
With responsibility for people, performance, productivity and the full site P&L, you’ll develop a high-performing team and create a culture where continuous improvement is part of the everyday.
You’ll also play an important role in supporting the growth of the Sunderland operation, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, service, commodity sales and overall site profitability.
Why it’s an opportunity not to be wasted
- Lead the safe, compliant and efficient operation of the depot and transfer station.
- Ensure health & safety, environmental, Operator Licence and company standards are consistently achieved.
- Manage and coordinate site resources to maximise productivity and maintain excellent service standards.
- Lead, coach and develop drivers and operational colleagues, creating an engaged and high-performing team.
- Manage performance against clearly defined KPIs and take action where required.
- Take ownership of the full site P&L, driving effective cost control and sustainable year-on-year performance.
- Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities across the operation.
- Support business growth, including opportunities around commodity sales and improved site profitability.
- Build strong relationships with customers, suppliers and teams across the wider Biffa business.
- Work collaboratively with regional management to shape the future direction and performance of the Sunderland operation.
What we’re looking for
- Significant experience as a Depot Manager, Transfer Station Manager, Operations Manager or in a similar operational leadership role.
- A relevant COTC qualification.
- CPC qualification.
- IOSH Certificate.
- Strong knowledge of health & safety, environmental, transport and waste industry legislation.
- Experience of leading and developing teams, ideally within a unionised and multi-shift environment.
- A proven track record of delivering against operational and service KPIs.
- Experience of driving continuous improvement within a fast-paced operational environment.
- Strong commercial awareness and P&L management experience.
- Good transport and logistics knowledge.
- Strong communication, leadership and relationship management skills.
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach with the ability to manage multiple priorities and make effective decisions.
Biffa – changing the way people think about waste
At Biffa, we love working with waste. Whether we’re turning it into sustainable power, finding new ways to recycle valuable resources or simply keeping waste off the streets, we believe every day is an opportunity to make a difference.
Our 11,000+ colleagues across the country enjoy careers that are rewarding, often challenging and never dull.
We believe different perspectives, experiences and backgrounds help us create a better and more effective workplace. That’s why we’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute, develop and succeed.
If you’re an experienced operational leader looking for your next opportunity in Sunderland and want to make a real impact on people, performance and operational excellence, we’d love to hear from you.
Skills Required
- Significant experience as an Operations Manager, Depot Manager, or in a similar senior operational role
- Relevant CPC qualification
- Strong commercial awareness and ability to operate in a time-critical environment
- Experience leading and developing teams in unionised and multi-shift environments
- Strong knowledge of health and safety management
- Comprehensive understanding of the waste industry and relevant legislation
- Current knowledge of environmental, transport and health and safety legislation
- Good knowledge of the local area
- Understanding of lean methodology and KPI-based performance management
- Proven track record of measurable continuous improvement in an operational environment
- Excellent communication and leadership skills
- GCSEs or equivalent in English and Maths
- A-Levels, degree, or other relevant professional qualifications
What We Do
Founded in 1912, Biffa is a leading UK-based integrated waste management company providing collection, treatment, recycling, and energy generation services. Serving commercial, industrial, and public sector clients, Biffa promotes sustainable waste management solutions and a circular economy. The company employs over 10,000 people and is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 through investment in green infrastructure and innovative waste-to-energy technologies.








