How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in any subject to become a road transport manager.
You might have an advantage if you study:
- logistics
- supply chain management
- transport management
- business management
You can also do a postgraduate course.
Graduate scheme
Once you have finished university, you could apply for a place on a graduate transport management trainee scheme.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship with a road transport company.
This will give you some of the skills and knowledge you need to work as an assistant transport manager in areas like retail or fast moving consumer goods, for example food and drink.
If you're working for a passenger transport company, you might be able to do a Passenger Transport Operations Manager Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start with a transport company as a HGV driver, depot supervisor or transport clerk. You might then move into a road transport manager's job through training and promotion.
Direct Application
You could apply directly for road transport manager jobs. You'll be expected to have experience and qualifications in road transport, warehouse management or logistics.
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Career tips
You'll find road transport manager roles in the private and public sector and in industries such as retail, engineering and passenger transport.
You'll find it useful to have:
- a good knowledge of the UK road network
- an understanding of transport rules and regulations
- experience of using transport management software
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and United Kingdom Warehousing Association(UKWA) for professional recognition and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in road transport from: