Fleet Operations Manager

We are looking for an experienced and results-driven Fleet Manager to lead our fleet operations and ensure the availability, reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness of our vehicle and Material Handling Equipment (MHE) fleet. The role is responsible for managing more than 100 vehicles and 50+ MHE assets that support our distribution and retail operations across the UAE.As Fleet Manager, you will be accountable for fleet performance, maintenance strategy, asset lifecycle management, compliance, contractor performance, cost optimization, and team leadership. You will play a critical role in ensuring business continuity by delivering a safe, efficient, and high-performing fleet operation.Key ResponsibilitiesFleet Strategy & PerformanceDefine, monitor, and report fleet KPIs, driving performance improvements across fleet operations.Develop fleet capacity plans aligned with business growth, operational requirements, and future expansion.Lead continuous improvement initiatives through root-cause analysis and corrective action plans.Optimize fleet utilization, productivity, and operating costs while maintaining service excellence.Fleet Maintenance & Asset ManagementOwn fleet and MHE availability, uptime, and operational readiness.Develop and manage preventive and corrective maintenance programs.Manage maintenance providers, workshops, and service contracts, ensuring adherence to agreed SLAs and performance standards.Review and validate maintenance requirements, repair quotations, and invoices to ensure technical accuracy and cost control.Monitor downtime, maintenance costs, and asset performance to improve reliability and efficiency.Manage the fleet lifecycle, including acquisition, replacement, refurbishment, and disposal of assets.Cost Management & BudgetingPrepare and manage the annual fleet operating and maintenance budget.Control fleet-related costs, including maintenance, fuel, tyres, repairs, and outsourced services.Identify opportunities to improve cost efficiency without compromising safety or operational performance.Develop business cases and recommendations for fleet investments and replacement programs.Technology & InnovationEvaluate and implement fleet management technologies, including telematics, GPS tracking, fuel monitoring, and maintenance management systems.Utilize data and analytics to improve fleet visibility, asset utilization, cost management, and operational decision-making.Drive innovation initiatives that enhance fleet performance, safety, and sustainability.People LeadershipLead, coach, and develop fleet coordinators, drivers, and support teams.Manage recruitment, attendance, performance, training, leave planning, and workforce development.Foster a culture of accountability, safety, customer service, and continuous improvement.Ensure performance is managed through clear KPIs and measurable outcomes.Vendor & Contractor ManagementManage relationships with maintenance contractors, vehicle suppliers, leasing companies, and service providers.Negotiate contracts, service agreements, pricing, and performance standards.Monitor vendor performance and implement improvement plans where necessary.Ensure external partners consistently meet operational, safety, and cost expectations.Compliance & SafetyEnsure full compliance with UAE regulations related to vehicle registration, insurance, permits, licensing, inspections, fines, and toll management.Maintain accurate fleet records and documentation.Lead fleet safety initiatives, incident investigations, and corrective action programs.Drive continuous improvement in safety performance and reduction of preventable incidents.Ensure compliance with all company policies, HSE standards, and regulatory requirements.Qualifications & ExperienceBachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, or a related field.Minimum 7-10 years of fleet management experience within retail, FMCG, logistics, transportation, or distribution environments.Strong knowledge of commercial vehicle maintenance, fleet operations, and asset lifecycle management.Experience managing maintenance contracts, vendors, and service providers.Knowledge of UAE transport regulations and fleet compliance requirements.Proficiency in fleet management systems, telematics platforms, and data analysis tools.Strong leadership, financial management, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Primary KPIsFleet Availability & UptimeMHE AvailabilityMaintenance Cost vs. BudgetFleet Utilization RateFleet Operating Cost per KMSafety & Preventable Incident RateCompliance StatusSupporting KPIsUnplanned DowntimeFuel Efficiency & Fuel Cost per KMContractor SLA PerformanceAsset Lifecycle CostDriver Attendance & ProductivityVehicle Inspection ComplianceVendor Performance RatingWhy Join Us?We offer the opportunity to lead a critical function within a growing retail and distribution business. As Fleet Manager, you will have a direct impact on operational excellence, cost efficiency, safety performance, and the future development of our fleet capabilities.