Position Summary
The Branch Manager is responsible for the overall management of the Kitchener student transportation operation. This includes driver supervision, dispatch oversight, customer relations, operational performance, staffing, fleet coordination, safety and service quality.
The Branch Manager is expected to operate independently, make sound operational decisions and ensure the branch runs efficiently while maintaining high standards of safety, service and accountability.
Reporting Structure
Reports directly to senior management.
Supervises:
- Dispatch team
- School van drivers
Key Responsibilities
Operations Management
- Oversee daily transportation operations and route execution
- Ensure all routes are covered and operational disruptions are resolved
- Monitor service quality and on-time performance
- Ensure company procedures and service standards are followed
Leadership & Staff Management
- Lead, coach and support approximately 45 drivers
- Supervise dispatch staff and ensure effective task delegation
- Conduct employee coaching, performance discussions and discipline where required
- Foster a positive, professional and accountable workplace culture
Recruitment & Training
- Coordinate recruiting efforts for new drivers
- Conduct interviews and hiring processes
- Coordinate onboarding, training and required certifications
Customer & Stakeholder Relations
- Maintain positive relationships with transportation consortiums, schools and families
- Address escalated operational concerns
- Resolve service issues professionally and efficiently
Dispatch Oversight
- Supervise dispatch operations to ensure:
o daily route coverage
o driver communication
o route updates
o student absence communication
o operational reporting
- Ensure dispatch staff are empowered and accountable
Fleet & Maintenance Coordination
- Ensure vehicles remain safe and operational
- Coordinate preventive maintenance and repairs
- Monitor vehicle readiness and fleet reliability
- Oversee maintenance documentation and tracking
Payroll & Administration Oversight
- Review route changes impacting payroll
- Validate payroll adjustments and operational tracking
- Ensure attendance and operational records are maintained
Safety & Compliance
- Lead branch safety culture
- Coordinate and conduct safety meetings
- Promote safe driving practices and compliance with company expectations
Qualifications
- Previous leadership or management experience
- Previous experience in the school bus industry
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and make sound decisions
- Experience in transportation, logistics, fleet or field operations is considered an asset
- Strong communication and leadership abilities
Success in this Role
A successful Branch Manager builds a strong team, delegates effectively, solves problems proactively and ensures the operation runs smoothly with minimal escalation.
Pay: From $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Stationnement sur place
- Tenue Décontractée
Work Location: In person
