Fleet Manager

Role Summary

As Fleet Manager, you oversee the entire fleet’s operation, ensuring vehicles are maintained, compliant, and optimally deployed. You manage driver schedules, maintenance, and compliance with safety regulations to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime. Your role is critical for sustaining smooth transportation and delivery services.

Required Education, Certifications, and Experience

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Business, or related field preferred

Certifications:

  • Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM – NAFA)
  • Certified Director of Maintenance/Equipment (CDM/E – NATMI)
  • DOT Compliance & Safety Certification
  • Certified Transportation Professional (CTP)
  • ASE Medium/Heavy Truck Certification
  • OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Certification

Experience:

5 plus years in fleet operations or management.
Experience managing drivers and maintenance teams.
Knowledge of DOT and safety regulations.

Core Skills

  • Maintenance scheduling
  • Compliance knowledge
  • Driver Supervision
  • Budget Management

A Hypothetical Day in the Life of a Fleet Manager

7:00 AM- You begin your day reviewing fleet status reports from overnight operations. You check vehicle availability, maintenance updates, and any reported incidents. A truck requiring urgent repair triggers coordination with the maintenance team to prioritize repairs and reroute deliveries to avoid service delays.

8:00 AM- You lead a morning briefing with fleet supervisors and dispatchers to review vehicle assignments, driver availability, and any regulatory compliance updates. Clear communication here is vital to ensuring all operations run without interruptions and meet safety standards.

9:30 AM- You monitor vehicle tracking systems to oversee route progress and identify any issues such as delays or mechanical problems. You communicate with drivers and dispatch to adjust routes or provide support as needed, minimizing impact on delivery schedules.

11:00 AM- You meet with maintenance supervisors to discuss preventive maintenance plans, resource allocation, and parts inventory. Proactive planning helps reduce vehicle downtime and extend fleet lifespan, directly affecting operational efficiency.

12:30 PM- Lunch is a brief break, used for reviewing fleet cost reports and analyzing fuel usage trends. You identify areas for cost savings and efficiency improvements to present to senior management.

2:00 PM- You conduct a safety audit focusing on driver compliance with hours-of-service regulations and vehicle inspection protocols. You address any violations immediately, emphasizing a culture of safety and accountability within the fleet.

3:30 PM-You hold coaching sessions with drivers who have performance or compliance issues. Providing targeted feedback and training helps improve overall fleet safety and reliability.


5:00 PM- You finalize daily fleet reports summarizing vehicle status, incidents, and maintenance needs. You escalate critical issues to upper management and plan adjustments for the following day’s operations.


6:30 PM-You conclude your day by updating schedules for upcoming maintenance and driver shifts, ensuring that the fleet is ready to support operational demands. Constant vigilance and planning are essential to your role’s success.