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External Transport Manager Opportunities
TMconsultant offers professional transport manager job opportunities across the UK, connecting qualified and like-minded Transport Managers with operator licence holders who need their expertise. Whether you’re an experienced ETM or newly qualified, we can help.
How does it work?
When a client contracts TMconsultant to find an External Transport Manager, we search within your preferred working areas to identify suitable transport manager positions near you.
Let us know the regions you can cover so we can match you accurately. Once we’ve made the introduction, you’ll speak directly with the operator to discuss the role. If you’re both happy to proceed, we'll put you both in contact. After which if you are both in agreement, you’ll complete the contract ( we can provide this if you don't already have one) and the online TM1 form via the client’s operator licence system.
TMconsultant provides ongoing advice and support throughout the process and beyond. We don’t just introduce you, we stay involved to ensure both you and the operator have a positive, compliant working relationship.
How much will I be paid?
We work to recommended External Transport Manager (ETM) rates, based on the number of vehicles on the operator’s licence and their Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS).. These rates are designed to reflect the level of responsibility and compliance oversight required.
| Operator Status | First Vehicle (per month) | Each Additional Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| Green Operators (or new operators) | £450.00 | £100.00 per vehicle |
| Amber Operators | £550.00 | £100.00 per vehicle |
| Red Operators | £650.00 | £100.00 per vehicle |
Once the operator appoints you, you’ll charge your agreed monthly rate from the end of the first month of engagement onwards.
For a full breakdown of rates, please visit our rates page here.
How many hours can an External Transport Manager work?
According to the Senior Traffic Commissioner’s Statutory Guidance (Document No. 3), the time a Transport Manager must devote to their duties depends on the size and complexity of the operator’s licence. The following table provides a clear guide to the minimum weekly hours recommended:
| Number of Vehicles Authorised | Recommended Minimum Hours per Week |
|---|---|
| 1 – 2 vehicles | 2 – 4 hours |
| 3 – 5 vehicles | 4 – 8 hours |
| 6 – 10 vehicles | 8 – 12 hours |
| 11 – 14 vehicles | 12 – 20 hours |
| 15 – 29 vehicles | 20 – 30 hours |
| 30 or more vehicles | Full time (around 36 hours or more) |
These figures are guidance only. The actual hours may vary depending on the operator’s compliance record, operating conditions, and the type of transport work undertaken.
Note, every Transport Manager must spend enough time to effectively manage compliance, maintenance, and driver standards, ensuring the operator remains within the conditions of their licence.
What happens if I work for more than one operator or have other work?
External Transport Managers can work with more than one operator, provided they can demonstrate they have sufficient time to manage all their responsibilities effectively. You can work for a maximum of four operators and oversee up to 50 vehicles in total.
The Senior Traffic Commissioner’s guidance allows Transport Managers to be named on multiple licences, as long as:
The total hours committed across all operators are realistic and achievable.
Each operator receives adequate attention and oversight.
You maintain clear separation between each client’s records and compliance systems.
If you have other professional commitments or employment, you must ensure there is no conflict of interest and that you can still dedicate the required hours to your ETM duties.
Transparency is essential. You will be required to declare all current engagements when applying for a position with the Office of the Traffic Commissioner (OTC), including travel time between operators and any additional work.
How do I join TMconsultant’s Transport Manager Job Opportunities database?
Complete the Transport Manager Opportunities Application Form on this page. Please complete it in full and include as much detail as possible about your experience, qualifications, areas of expertise and locations. You must upload your CV.
Applications missing key information may not be considered. Once a suitable transport manager job opportunity arises in your area, we’ll be in touch.
Why join TMconsultant’s network of Transport Managers?
By joining TMconsultant, you’ll gain access to a wide range of external transport manager job opportunities across the UK.
Our network includes both highly experienced Transport Managers and newly qualified professionals who’ve recently achieved their Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) for Transport Managers. Every ETM is fully vetted before placement.
What if I’ve only just qualified as a Transport Manager?
If you’ve recently passed your CPC for Transport Managers in Road Haulage, you can still apply for External Transport Manager opportunities with TMconsultant. We regularly work with newly qualified TMs who are eager to gain experience and start building their portfolio of operators.
When placing newly qualified ETMs, we consider factors such as:
The type of operator and the level of support they require.
Your previous experience within transport operations or management.
Your understanding of compliance and willingness to seek ongoing guidance.
TMconsultant offers ongoing support and mentorship, helping you settle into your first ETM role with confidence. You’ll also have access to advice, resources, and professional development opportunities to help you grow as a Transport Manager.
Have you thought about teaching Driver CPC?
TMconsultant also offers opportunities for Transport Managers to deliver Driver CPC training as part of our consortium network.
By joining us, you can teach periodic Driver CPC courses under the umbrella of TMconsultant’s DVSA-approved centre, with full access to our support and course materials.
For more information, please visit our Driver CPC Consortium Page,or alternatively get in touch.
Where can I get more information?
You have a look at our news pages for the Transport Manager here. Alternatively, you can get in touch. Here to share the knowledge!