he Vice President of Fleet Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for the strategic direction, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance of Safeway Trucking?s fleet assets. This includes oversight of all chassis and tractors, fleet acquisition and lifecycle management, maintenance operations, vendor relations, and technical supervision?leveraging deep expertise in diesel mechanics.
The VP will lead a multidisciplinary team including fleet managers, mechanics, safety officers, and administrative personnel to ensure optimal performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness of the company?s transportation assets.
Key Responsibilities
Fleet Strategy & Oversight
- Develop and execute long-term strategies for fleet optimization, including acquisition, disposal, and replacement planning.
- Oversee chassis and tractor asset management, ensuring alignment with company growth and customer demand.
- Set and monitor KPIs related to fleet performance, availability, reliability, and total cost of ownership.
Maintenance & Technical Leadership
- Supervise maintenance operations, ensuring high mechanical integrity and safety across all assets.
- Serve as the subject matter expert on diesel mechanics, mentoring shop staff and guiding repair protocols.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives within fleet shops to reduce downtime, increase first-time fix rates, and improve technician efficiency.
Compliance & Safety
- Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local transportation and environmental regulations (e.g., DOT, EPA).
- Champion safety initiatives related to fleet maintenance and operation; collaborate with Safety and Compliance departments.
Vendor & Budget Management
- Manage relationships with OEMs, leasing companies, repair vendors, and parts suppliers.
- Develop and administer the fleet operations budget, including capital expenditures, maintenance costs, and vendor contracts.
Technology & Innovation
- Evaluate and implement fleet management systems, telematics, and predictive maintenance tools.
- Explore innovations such as electric vehicle integration, emissions-reduction technologies, and automation where applicable.