Transportation Jobs in Wakefield, United Kingdom (Now Hiring) — 5 open

The role

As a Senior Driver Development Coach, you will play a pivotal role in our Driving Academy, , raising safety standards, and enhancing performance across our fast-paced transport network. Working closely with the Driver Training Manager, you will make a tangible difference by shaping the operational training agenda, lowering road risks through defensive driving techniques, and championing fuel-efficient coaching initiatives. Leading by example, you will directly manage a dedicated team of Driver Development Coaches within our Central Transport team, providing them with regular 1-2-1 support, review meetings, and proactive performance management to ensure flawless training consistency. Based at our flagship Distribution Centre in South Elmsall, you will be a key player in our Transport team, demonstrating flexibility and a can-do attitude.   From day one, NEXT is committed to supporting your professional growth, providing comprehensive onboarding and the tools needed to establish yourself as a departmental legislative expert within our industry-leading, in-house Driving Academy.

What you'll take on

• Collaborate with the transport administration team to plan, structure, and deliver highly organised inductions for all new permanent and agency drivers.
• Lead, mentor, and conduct performance reviews and regular 1-2-1s with the Central Transport DDC team to maintain consistent, high-quality training delivery.
• Plan and conduct general driving assessments, actively identifying operational areas for improvement, and delivering robust post-accident training and evaluations.
• Deliver engaging, compliant CPC training modules to our LGV Drivers through a flexible blend of interactive online and classroom-based sessions.
• Support the Driver Training Manager in designing, reviewing, and continuously improving innovative training materials and long-term upskilling strategies.
• Ensure all driver assessments and training documentations are meticulously updated and aligned with active Company policies and health and safety risk assessments.
• Maintain operational flexibility to support our 24-hour distribution network, occasionally adjusting your hours to deliver training across night shifts, weekends, and regional service centres.

What you'll bring

• Proven expertise as a Driver Trainer with a minimum of 1 year practical Class 1 C+E driving experience, alongside a comprehensive understanding of tachograph and Working Time regulations.
• Strong coaching credentials with a natural ability to deliver structured training programmes, particularly driver CPC modules.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven track record of influencing and motivating individuals in a positive, constructive manner.
• Natural leadership and management capabilities, with the confidence to support, manage, and develop a team of coaching professionals, having previous experience of managing a team
• An adaptable approach to work, with the resilience to reprioritise your schedule efficiently when operational plans change quickly in a dynamic business environment.
• Strong organisational skills and a keen eye for detail to keep pace with shifting workplace legislation, training guidelines, and safety compliance standards.