Transport, freight and storage specialist Bullet Express has recruited Grant Donald, former head of Movianto’s UK network operations, as its chief operating officer.

Donald, who will join the company’s leadership team and the board of directors, will assume responsibility for the operational oversight of Bullet Express and a range of operational initiatives.

This includes performance management, focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) that drive the company’s business objectives, and spearheading efforts in customer satisfaction.

Bullet Express, which has its headquarters in Bothwell, near Glasgow, said Donald plans to employ “innovative strategies” to boost Bullet Express’s service offerings and meet the “evolving needs” of its clients with a commitment to continuous improvement programmes to “elevate the overall efficiency and effectiveness of operations”.

Donald brings 35 years of experience in transport, logistics and operations to his new post.

He joins Bullet Express from his role as the national head of UK network operations at Movianto, where he was responsible for overseeing a workforce of more than 500 across 16 operating centres.

Under his guidance, Movianto achieved substantial improvements in operational efficiency and service delivery, setting new benchmarks in customer satisfaction, Bullet Express said.

Prior to his role at Movianto, Donald held several senior operational executive positions with companies including DPD, G4S and Tuffnels.

The company added: “His track record in these organisations demonstrates his ability to lead large teams, optimise supply chains, and implement best practices that drive growth and innovation.

“The introduction of Grant into the executive team reflects the progress Bullet Express is continuing to make as a business.

“Enhancing the strategic leadership will ensure that the business can navigate the challenges of a competitive industry and support future growth plans, capitalising on emerging opportunities while maintaining the company’s focus on delivering superior service to customers.”

John McKail, Bullett Express group chief executive, commented: “This strategic move comes at a time when Bullet Express is poised for further expansion.

“Grant’s expertise aligns perfectly with our vision of scaling our operations and reinforcing our standing in key market sectors, such as automotive, aviation, FMCG, and retail.

“As Group CEO, I am confident that Grant will lead the operational charge needed to take our business to the next level. The timing of his appointment is particularly fortuitous. As we expand our operational footprint, we are also attracting contract-backed business opportunities from these vital industries.

“With Grant at the helm of operations, we anticipate elevating our service delivery and positioning ourselves as leaders in these competitive fields.”

Donald added: “In taking on this crucial role, I aim to build upon the foundation already established by Bullet Express and to introduce innovativestrategies that will enhance our service delivery and operational efficiency.

“There is clear vision for the future that includes maintaining our current high standards but also fostering a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability within the organisation.

“Operational excellence is not just a goal; it is a mindset that permeates every level of the organisation.”

Bullet Express, which was launched 30 years ago, has a fleet of 145 trucks and trailers and four bespoke storage sites with capacity for up to 40,000 pallets.

It employs 160 staff and provides UK and European road freight services, worldwide freight management, customs and storage solutions for more than 800 customers.

In 2023, Bullet Express was acquired in a private equity backed management buyout (MBO) led by the company’s MD, John McKail.

The multi-million-pound MBO is backed by equity partners, Panoramic Growth Equity, an equity and debt investor in UK based small and medium sized companies, and investment firm Maven Capital Partners.