Operations Manager - community transport

Vacancy

Vacancy for Operations Manager – applications considered for full or part-time role

About Bob the Bus

Bob the Bus is a highly respected local charity running a fleet of 4 minibuses. We operate scheduled services in and around Totnes from Monday to Saturday, and a monthly Travel Club. Almost all our drivers are volunteers. We also offer private hire (with driver) to local community groups. In 2025 we received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

We currently employ two part‑time staff, but now require a manager to oversee the operation of our services. The role could be part‑time (up to 20 hours) or full‑time for the right candidate.

The ideal candidate would be able to take on both administrative and ‘hands‑on’ duties, being responsible for the day‑to‑day availability and smooth operation of our small fleet of buses, and managing our group of over 30 volunteers. The role is very varied and sometimes ‘public facing’, dealing with enquiries from passengers and other members of the public. The manager will work closely with existing part‑time staff.

Key Responsibilities (Full‑time)

The following is a summary of the key responsibilities of a full‑time manager – a successful part‑time employee might fill only some of these tasks, depending on their interests and capabilities.

• Develop an awareness of the regulatory aspects of community transport, including health and safety issues and legal compliance, and ensure that necessary policies are communicated to all volunteers.
• Working with colleagues and trustees, help to develop management systems and procedures for efficient bus operation.
• Ensure that buses are prepared for weekly scheduled routes and other uses, and that essential servicing and testing are correctly scheduled.
• Establish and maintain mutually‑beneficial relations with neighbouring Community Transport operators.
• Support initiatives to encourage volunteer recruitment and external funding bids.
• Working with trustees, establish costing guidelines and policies for private hire.

A more detailed summary is available on request.

Qualifications & Skills

As well as the usual IT skills, the ideal applicant will be enthusiastic about the charity sector, innovative and flexible.

It would be an advantage to hold a clean driving licence. If appropriate, TARCT will facilitate the acquisition of a D1 category licence, to permit occasional bus driving.

Remuneration

Remuneration: negotiable, depending on skills and experience, up to £3,000 per month pro rata. Some overtime may be payable in exceptional circumstances but is not guaranteed.

Starting Date

Starting date: no later than September/October 2026. There may be scope for part‑time work to start earlier, depending on availability.

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