Bullet Express appoints new Chief Operating Officer
Bullet Express, one of the UK's fastest-growing transport, supply chain logistics, worldwide freight management and storage businesses has appointed Grant Donald as Chief Operating Officer. Grant, who joins the leadership team and the Board of Directors, will assume responsibility for the operational oversight of Bullet Express and a broad 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.
He plans to employ innovative strategies to enhance 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. Grant brings a wealth of experience spanning over 35 years in senior leadership roles in transport, logistics and operations. 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. Prior to his role at Movianto, Grant held several senior operational executive positions with companies including DPD, G4S and Tuffnels. 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, Group Chief Executive Officer, Bullet Express, said: "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."
Grant Donald, Chief Operating Officer, Bullet Express, said: "In taking on this crucial role, I aim to build upon the foundation already established by Bullet Express and to introduce innovative strategies 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." Established more than 30 years ago, Bullet Express now has more than 800 regular customers; 145 trucks and trailers on the country's roads; and four bespoke storage sites with capacity for up to 40,000 pallets.
It is a full-service logistics business with 160 employees providing UK and European road freight services, worldwide freight management, customs and storage solutions for customers.
Bullet Express' rapidly expanding network now includes:
- Renfrew, Westway Bullet Express Storage Centre with 67,000 sq/ft. floor storage and easy access to the M8 and Glasgow Airport.
- Bothwell, Express Pallet Centre and HQ totalling 200,000 sq/ft. - network distribution.
- Baillieston, flagship Storage Centre totalling 210,000 sq/ft. - racked and floor storage.
In Autumn 2023, Bullet Express was acquired in a private equity backed management buyout (MBO) led by the company's Managing Director, John McKail.
The multi-million-pound MBO is backed by equity partners, Panoramic Growth Equity, a leading equity and debt investor in UK-based small and medium sized companies, and Maven Capital Partners, one of the UK's most active investors in growing businesses.