What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Fleet position at East Coast Warehouse & Distribution?
The Director of Fleet at Safeway Trucking is responsible for overseeing all aspects of fleet operations, ensuring optimal efficiency, compliance, and cost-effectiveness. This role involves strategic planning, maintenance oversight, regulatory compliance, and leadership of the fleet management team. The Director of Fleet will work closely with various departments to enhance fleet performance, maximize uptime, and implement best practices in safety and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
Fleet Operations & Strategy
- Develop and implement long-term fleet management strategies to improve operational efficiency.
- Oversee fleet performance metrics, ensuring reliability and cost-effectiveness.
- Manage fleet expansion, upgrades, and replacement planning.
- Evaluate and implement emerging technologies to enhance fleet productivity and sustainability.
Maintenance & Compliance
- Establish and enforce preventative maintenance programs to ensure vehicle reliability.
- Ensure all fleet operations comply with DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, and environmental regulations.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date fleet maintenance records and compliance documentation.
- Collaborate with maintenance teams to minimize vehicle downtime and enhance longevity.
Safety & Risk Management
- Develop and oversee fleet safety policies, ensuring adherence to industry best practices.
- Lead safety initiatives, including driver training, incident investigations, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Monitor compliance with company policies, driver performance, and accident prevention measures.
- Partner with HR and Safety teams to implement driver safety programs and continuous training.
Budgeting & Cost Control
- Develop and manage the fleet operations budget, optimizing expenses while maintaining high service levels.
- Monitor and control fuel usage, maintenance costs, and asset depreciation.
- Negotiate contracts with vendors for maintenance services, leasing, fuel, and fleet technology.
- Identify cost-saving initiatives without compromising fleet performance.
Vendor & Equipment Management
- Oversee relationships with leasing companies, service providers, and parts suppliers.
- Ensure fleet procurement aligns with company goals and operational requirements.
- Manage contracts for fleet maintenance, fuel supply, and equipment leasing.
Leadership & Team Development
- Lead and mentor a team of fleet managers, maintenance staff, and support personnel.
- Foster a culture of accountability, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
- Work closely with drivers, operations, and logistics teams to ensure seamless fleet performance.
- Develop training programs for fleet personnel and drivers to enhance skills and safety awareness.
Qualifications & Skills:
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Business Administration, Supply Chain, or a related field (preferred).
- 7 years of experience in fleet management, trucking, logistics, or transportation operations.
- Proven leadership experience in managing large-scale trucking fleets.
- Strong knowledge of DOT, FMCSA, and OSHA regulations.
Technical & Leadership Skills
- Proficiency in fleet management software (e.g., Samsara, Fleet Complete, TMT, Geotab).
- Strong analytical skills for performance monitoring, cost analysis, and efficiency improvements.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and decision-making abilities.
- Ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives that drive fleet performance.
Work Environment & Schedule:
- Full-time role, with availability for emergency fleet situations as needed.
- Work involves both office-based strategy development and field operations oversight.
Occasional travel required for vendor management, site visits, and industry conferences