Ian Smith

I am an experienced Transport manager with a broad range of skills in both operational and commercial roles. My skills and competencies are easily transferable, and I have enjoyed significant success across a number of different market sectors and industries. I am a strong communicator and believe that engagement is the key to success in any team.

I have a strong background and demonstrable knowledge in a number of areas including Sales, Operations, H.R, Health and safety and importantly profit generation. I approach each challenge as an opportunity to succeed and provide the necessary leadership to those around me to do the same.

Transport Compliance & Consultancy - Self Employed - Northeast & Cumbria

(2026-03)

I provide specialist transport compliance and consultancy services to operators throughout the North East, Cumbria and North Yorkshire, supporting businesses in achieving and maintaining compliance with the requirements and expectations of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). My approach is practical, structured and evidence-based. The objective is not simply to identify shortcomings, but to ensure that effective systems, procedures and controls are implemented and maintained to demonstrate ongoing compliance.

I can undertake an initial compliance audit of an operator’s transport systems, including maintenance, drivers’ hours, tachograph management, defect reporting, driver licensing, vehicle safety, record keeping and relevant policies and procedures. Following the audit, I will establish a clear compliance action plan, identifying any deficiencies, the corrective action required, responsibility for completing those actions and appropriate timescales. Where required, I can join the business on either a short-term or longer-term basis to oversee and implement the required improvements.

The focus is on bringing the operator’s systems and procedures into line with DVSA exp

• Identify the weaknesses.
• Put effective systems in place.
• Demonstrate compliance.
• Maintain compliance.

Transport Manager/Head of Transport Operations - Newcastle upon Tyne

(2024-01 - 2026-03)

I am an experienced Transport Manager / Head of Transport Operations, currently responsible for leading a team of drivers and overseeing both general haulage and the coordination of heavy and wide-load movements across the UK. This includes managing a mixed fleet of HGVs and vans, ensuring efficient day-to-day operations while maintaining a strong emphasis on fleet safety, regulatory compliance, and service quality. Since taking on this role, I have played a key part in transforming the business into a fully compliant and operationally sound organisation.

This included securing a new Operator’s Licence following a period of non-compliance prior to my appointment — a milestone that restored operational integrity and laid the foundation for sustainable growth. My role demands clear and effective communication with customers to maintain a high standard of service delivery. I also lead regular toolbox talks and driver briefings to ensure that all team members remain up to date with industry regulations and best practices.

Through my leadership, compliance standards have improved significantly, and fleet profitability has increased. I take a proactive, hands-on approach and am deeply co

HGV Instructor/Trainer - Tyne

(2023-02 - 2024-01)

As an HGV instructor/part time, my role is to train new drivers and guide them through the process of obtaining their HGV licence, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed on the road. I work closely with each trainee, starting from the basics and progressing to more advanced driving techniques, ensuring they understand not only how to operate a heavy goods vehicle safely but also how to handle real-world driving situations. Throughout the training, I focus on building good habits, promoting road safety, and helping learners stay calm and in control under pressure.

I support them through both the practical and theoretical elements of the licence process, offering clear instruction, constructive feedback, and encouragement at every stage. My goal is to prepare drivers not just to pass their test, but to begin their careers as competent, responsible, and professional HGV drivers, ready to take on the demands of the industry with confidence.

Transport Manager - Banks Brothers Transport - Durham, NC

(2020-01 - 2023-02)

In my role, I was responsible for managing the day-to-day transport operations, including overseeing a fleet of trucks and a team of professional drivers. When I joined the company, the transport operation was primarily focused on moving its own coal product. I played a key role in transitioning the business into general haulage, opening up new revenue streams and diversifying its logistics capabilities.

One of my first initiatives was to implement a “No Damage” policy, which addressed a high volume of weekly vehicle damages that had been causing significant financial losses. Within two months, I had successfully reduced these incidents, resulting in immediate savings and better vehicle care. Driver performance has also significantly improved under my leadership.

I maintain a hands-on approach and frequently go out on the road — typically 2 to 3 times per week — to build relationships and actively seek new business opportunities. This effort has contributed directly to securing over £1.1 million in new contracts since I joined the business. Drawing on my background in tyre and fuel management, I’ve also delivered substantial cost savings across the fleet by optimising tyre use and

Transport Manager - Road Tech - Cumbria

(2017-12 - 2020-01)

Managing the day to running of the Transport Dept and also in doing so securing new customers for increased turnover and managing KPIs and Targets daily. I managed a large storage warehousing where we stored goods for third party accounts and arranged the transport through ourselves and sub contract work.

Centre Manager - KwikFit - Carlisle, PA

(2014-12 - 2017-12)

Running a very busy fast fit centre and being in charge of 11 fitters and 1 MOT TESTER and delivering very good customer service and improving sales and profit along with KPIs.I also was used as a trouble shooter manager going into branches to turn them round to performing branches.

HGV Driver/Supervisor - Northumberland

(2009-04 - 2014-12)

My responsibilities were transporting materials around the northeast to and from sites, and on some occasions delivered large plant machinery around the northeast via low loader.And when quiet working in the transport office helping sort work for 49 trucks on a daily basis.

Class 1 Driver - Harpers environmental - Dudley, MA

(2007-12 - 2009-04)

I was in charge of the Collection of liquid waste and a team of Drivers and making sure it is all transported to the processing plant in Dudley.

Car Transporter Driver - Paul Hodgson - Bedlington

(2005-01 - 2007-12)

car transport - 2005 to 2007 Driving a class one trailer 11 plus car trailer around the UK, dropping cars and vans at dealerships safely in all weathers. Keeping to tight timetables.

Centre Manager - National Tyres and Auto care Ltd - Blyth

(2001-12 - 2005-01)

Manages four sales/fitters in the branch. Implemented training for new recruits- speeding profitability for my branch. Received company's highest sales award out of 214 branches and also I was travelling around the northeast of England to help bring back branches which have slipped back with revenue.

Fitter - National Tyres and Auto care Ltd - Northumberland

(1999-01 - 2001-12)

Helping to increase the branches profits by helping to sell products Developed Excellence in Sales training course.

English in English (G.C.S.E in English) - Coquet High School Amble (1982 - 1985)