State Transport Manager

At Metcash, you're part of something bigger. We've got the heart of a small business with the strength and support of a big business.

When you join Metcash, your work makes a real difference to independent businesses and local communities, empowering you to:

• Grow your career with tailored development programs
• Thrive your way with flexible work options
• Make your mark in a high-performing, values-led team

At Metcash Food, we're the power behind local business, proudly supplying over 1600 independently owned stores in every corner of Australia and New Zealand. With a range of trusted independent brands like IGA, Foodland and Campbells/C-Store, our stores sit at the heart of their communities, providing locals with the products and homegrown produce they love most.

About the Opportunity

We're currently seeking a passionate and experienced State Transport Manager to join our team for the VIC operations based in Truganina. You will lead the outbound transport operations for our Dry Grocery, National Distribution Centre, Liquor, and Perishables divisions. This is a critical leadership role where you'll be at the heart of our logistics engine, ensuring our products are delivered safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively to our valued retail partners.

If you're a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a drive for operational excellence, this is your opportunity to make a real impact in a business that values innovation, collaboration, and community

In this Role

• Lead daily outbound transport operations across Dry Grocery, NDC, Liquor, and Perishables, ensuring safe, timely, and cost-effective delivery performance
• Champion a strong safety culture by setting clear expectations, maintaining food-grade housekeeping standards, and embedding proactive safety practices across the team and transport partners
• Manage and develop a high-performing team of supervisors and frontline staff, ensuring resource planning aligns with workload forecasts and budget targets
• Collaborate with transport providers to meet Chain of Responsibility (CoR) obligations, resolve critical issues, and ensure vehicle and driver availability
• Drive continuous improvement by identifying and implementing initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service across transport, dispatch, and order assembly
• Build strong customer relationships through regular engagement, store visits, and proactive service reviews to ensure delivery satisfaction and address any issues swiftly
• Control outbound transport costs by monitoring expenditure, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and ensuring alignment with budget expectations
• Foster a positive team culture where people feel heard, supported, and empowered to contribute ideas, take accountability, and grow their careers

You're Likely a Match If  

• 5+ years of leadership experience in transport operations, with a strong track record of managing complex logistics environments
• Proven ability to manage multiple carriers and engage effectively with drivers, ensuring service excellence and compliance
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience in preparing, managing, and achieving financial budgets.
• Solid understanding of Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) requirements and food-grade standards, with a commitment to safe and compliant operations
• Hands-on experience with Transport Management Systems (TMS) and a data-driven approach to performance and planning
• Demonstrated success in leading continuous improvement initiatives, driving efficiency across people, processes, and systems
• Outstanding people leadership and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence, coach, and build strong relationships across all levels
• Customer-centric mindset, with a passion for delivering high service standards and understanding the end-to-end impact of transport operations
• Collaborative, curious, and resilient leader with a passion for media excellence

What's on offer

We're proud to offer a workplace that supports your well-being, growth, and belonging:

Extra Leave: Enjoy a 5th week of annual leave, 2 well-being days, plus 1 volunteer day annually

Career Growth: Endless learning and development opportunities

Parental Leave: 12 weeks of gender-neutral paid leave for primary carers

Inclusive Culture: Bronze Employer for LGBTQ Inclusion

Neutral Pay Gap: Gender pay gap under 5% (WGEA 2024–2025)

Mental Health: Gold accreditation by Mental Health Australia

Flexibility: Flex Ready and Family Friendly Workplace accredited

About Us

Join us and be part of something bigger

Metcash is Australia's leading wholesale distribution company, with $19.5 billion in sales (FY25) and a proud spot in the ASX Top 125.

We believe in the power of independent, family-owned businesses to shape vibrant communities. Through our food, liquor, and hardware pillars, we help retailers become the 'Best Store in Their Town' by providing merchandising, operational and marketing support. 

We're committed to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability — and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including First Nations. If you need support during the application process, just let us know. Your privacy and dignity are always respected.

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