Job Title: Fleet Manager
Reports To: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Fleet Manager to join our team. This is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing all field operations, including our team of truck drivers and retail staff. The ideal candidate is a versatile, hands-on leader who excels in a dynamic environment, combining strategic oversight with practical, in-the-field expertise. You will be directly responsible for fleet management, people management within your division, and hands-on truck maintenance to ensure our operations run smoothly, efficiently, and safely.
This position requires a unique blend of technical mechanical skill, logistical planning, and strong leadership capabilities. You will manage the supervisors of the driving and retail teams, ensuring that performance targets are met and that all staff members are trained, motivated, and supported.
Key Responsibilities:
Field Operations:
- Direct and coordinate all daily field activities, including driver dispatch, route planning, and retail store operations, to ensure seamless execution and optimal efficiency.
- Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to enhance productivity, quality of service, and profitability.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for both the transportation and retail divisions, such as on-time delivery rates, fuel efficiency, sales targets, and customer satisfaction.
- Act as the primary point of contact for escalating operational issues, providing swift and effective solutions to minimize disruption.
Fleet Management:
- Manage the entire lifecycle of the company's vehicle fleet, from procurement and outfitting to disposal.
- Develop and oversee a comprehensive preventative maintenance schedule to ensure vehicle reliability, safety, and compliance with all Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
- Track all fleet-related expenses, including fuel, maintenance, and repairs, to manage the budget effectively and identify cost-saving opportunities.
- Maintain meticulous records for all vehicles, including maintenance logs, inspection reports, and registration details.
People Management:
- Provide direct leadership, mentorship, and support to the Driver Supervisor and Retail Supervisor, empowering them to manage their respective teams effectively.
- Oversee the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding process for all positions within the operations division.
- Conduct regular performance reviews, set clear goals, and implement professional development plans for direct reports.
- Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that prioritizes safety, accountability, and teamwork.
Hands-On Truck Maintenance:
- Personally perform diagnostics, troubleshooting, and hands-on repairs for a range of mechanical and electrical issues on our fleet of commercial trucks.
- Conduct and oversee preventative maintenance tasks, including oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations, both as a scheduled activity and as needed.
- Manage the inventory of spare parts, tools, and equipment, ensuring the maintenance workshop is well-organized and properly supplied.
- Provide technical guidance and training to drivers on pre-trip inspections and basic vehicle upkeep.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in an operations or logistics role, with at least 3-5 years in a management position.
- Proven experience in fleet management and hands-on maintenance of commercial vehicles (diesel engine experience is highly preferred).
- Experience managing teams in a related field (e.g., transportation, logistics, retail).
- Strong mechanical aptitude and diagnostic skills.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficient in logistics and fleet management software.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Solid understanding of budgeting and financial management.
- Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a plus.
- ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification or equivalent is highly desirable.
Working Conditions:
- This role operates in a mixed environment, splitting time between an office setting, a repair shop, and field locations.
- Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by operational demands.
- Physical requirements include the ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs.), stand for extended periods, and work in various weather conditions.