Jobs · Management · Illinois

National Fleet Operations Manager

Freeman Company · Chicago, IL · 3 days ago
HybridManagement$90k–$120k/yrFull-time

About the role

The National Fleet Operations Manager is a leadership role responsible for the strategic direction, daily operations, and long-term development of the organization's transportation and material handling fleet assets across the entire branch network.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain standardized asset specifications for all fleet categories, establishing criteria governing vehicle and equipment selection, configuration, and outfitting.
  • Establish, maintain, and enforce asset acquisition policies including approved makes, models, configurations, and procurement sources.
  • Determine and execute asset disposition schedules based on utilization data, maintenance cost analysis, market conditions, and organizational needs; manage trade-in, remarketing, and auction channels.
  • Maintain accurate fleet inventories, asset records, partner with DOT Compliance team to ensure timely inspections and registrations of all fleet equipment.
  • Onboard and maintain fleet utilization tracking systems providing real-time and historical visibility into asset deployment, idle time, and efficiency metrics across the branch network.
  • Monitor fuel consumption patterns, analyze variances, and implement programs to improve fuel efficiency and reduce cost.
  • Develop and deliver sustainability and environmental impact reporting in alignment with organizational objectives, including emissions tracking and fleet electrification planning.
  • Create, implement, and continuously improve standardized Standard Operating Procedures for preventative maintenance programs across all asset classes and all branches nationwide.
  • Oversee the end-to-end repair order workflow, ensuring timely authorization, completion, and cost control of maintenance and repair work performed internally or by third-party vendors.
  • Establish and enforce maintenance compliance standards, holding branch teams accountable for adherence to PM schedules and inspection requirements.
  • Identify, evaluate, and onboard qualified vendors for fleet-related services including maintenance, repair, tire programs, telematics, fuel, equipment rental, and fleet branding.
  • Partner with Procurement to negotiate, execute, and manage vendor contracts, ensuring competitive pricing, service level compliance, and favorable terms.
  • Conduct quarterly business reviews to monitor vendor performance and manage escalations as required.
  • Partner with Procurement to build and maintain a national preferred vendor network capable of supporting branch operations across all geographic locations.
  • Partner with branch leadership to ensure fleet resources are properly deployed, maintained, and aligned with operational demands.
  • Collaborate with Vice President of National Freight Operations and Finance to build annual Capex Budget, execute Early Capex and Final Capex Budget purchases asset capitalization, budgeting, lease vs. buy analysis, and fleet-related cost management.
  • Coordinate with the Safety department to ensure full compliance with DOT regulations, OSHA standards, and all applicable federal, state, and local requirements governing fleet and material handling operations.
  • Serve as an organizational resource and subject matter expert; provide training, guidance, and support to branch personnel on fleet-related policies, procedures, and systems.
  • Adhere to all company safety polices, procedures, and work instructions. Complete required safety training and consistently apply safe work practices.
  • Immediately report any workplace accidents, near misses, hazards, or unsafe conditions to a manager or through an appropriate reporting channel.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree from a 4-year accredited college or university with a concentration in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, or a closely related field; or an equivalent combination of education and directly relevant experience.
  • Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive fleet management experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial capacity.
  • Demonstrated experience managing a mixed fleet including over-the-road transportation assets and material handling equipment.
  • Proven success in developing and implementing fleet policies, SOPs, maintenance programs, and asset lifecycle strategies.
  • Experience with fleet telematics platforms, fleet management software (FMS), and asset tracking systems.
  • Proficiency in data analysis, reporting, and the use of Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
  • Expert knowledge of DOT regulations, OSHA requirements, and fleet-related compliance obligations.
  • Experience with managing vendor relationships, negotiating contracts, and overseeing service agreements.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present data and recommendations to senior leadership.
  • Innovative and Continuous Improvement mindset.
  • Strategic and inspiring team leader who fosters collaboration.
  • Ability to follow safety rules and contribute to a positive safety culture.
  • Experience in a multi-site, distribution, or branch network environment is preferred.
  • Familiarity with fleet electrification, alternative fuels, and sustainability reporting frameworks is preferred.
  • Prior experience managing fleet budgets in excess of $8 million annually is preferred.

Skills

  • Strong leadership and decision-making skills.
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills.
  • Highly analytical and detail-oriented.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Knowledge of fleet management software and telematics platforms.
  • Experience with fleet maintenance and repair processes.
  • Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Benefits

What We Offer
The Freeman Company provides benefits that aim to empower our people and their families to thrive mentally, physically, and financially. These are a handful of the types of programs and benefits our full-time people may be eligible for.
There may be some variances in specific benefits across regions.
Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement
Paid Parental Leave
Life, Accident and Disability
Retirement with Company Match
Paid Time Off
Hiring range of $90,000 - $120,000 based upon experience. This position also qualifies for an Annual Incentive Bonus (AIP).

Pay

Hiring range of $90,000 - $120,000 based upon experience. This position also qualifies for an Annual Incentive Bonus (AIP).

Schedule

This Position Will Support Our Delivery Enablement Team. It Is Eligible To Work a Hybrid Schedule, Generally Requiring Work In-office And/or Show-site 2-3 Days Per Week. The Ideal Candidate Will Be Located In Dallas, TX; However, We Are Also Open To Candidates Based Out Of Chicago, ILLas Vegas, NVOrlando, FLOr Washington DC

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