Summary: The Fleet Shop Service Manager leads all aspects of fleet maintenance operations, ensuring the reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness of our vehicle fleet. This strategic leadership role combines technical expertise with operational excellence to optimize fleet performance, minimize downtime, and drive continuous improvement across maintenance programs. As a key leader within the operations organization, the Fleet Service Manager oversees maintenance teams, vendor relationships, asset management strategies, and compliance programs while partnering with cross-functional stakeholders to align fleet operations with business objectives.
Responsibilities: Fleet Operations & Maintenance Leadership - Direct all fleet maintenance operations including preventive maintenance, repairs, inspections, and emergency response in your area of responsibility
- Implement and monitor comprehensive maintenance strategies that maximize vehicle uptime, extend asset life, and reduce total cost of ownership
- Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for fleet reliability, maintenance costs, vehicle availability, and safety compliance
- Oversee maintenance scheduling systems to optimize resource utilization and minimize operational disruptions
- Manage fleet assets across the full lifecycle from acquisition through disposal
- Ensure proper documentation and record-keeping for all maintenance activities and vehicle history
Team Leadership & Development - Lead, mentor, and develop maintenance teams including technicians, service managers, and support staff
- Build a high-performance culture focused on safety, quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement
- Conduct performance evaluations, provide coaching, and create development plans for team members
- Ensure proper staffing levels, skill sets, and certifications to meet operational demands
- Foster collaboration across shifts, locations, and departments
- Make employment decisions and recommendations on hiring, promotions, corrective actions, and terminations
- Create succession plans and develop future leaders within the maintenance organization
Vendor & Supplier Management - Negotiate and manage relationships with OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), parts suppliers, service providers, and equipment vendors
- Evaluate vendor performance, manage contracts, and ensure service level agreements are met
- Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships that enhance service quality and reduce costs
- Hold team accountable to warranty recovery and claim processes to maximize cost recovery
- Manage vendor invoicing, payment processing, and financial reconciliation
- Source and onboard new vendors to support fleet operations and capacity needs
Compliance & Safety - Ensure full compliance with DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, EPA, and other applicable federal, state, and local regulations
- Develop and enforce safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and best practices
- Conduct safety audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations
- Maintain required certifications, licenses, and documentation for vehicles and personnel
- Implement environmental initiatives to minimize fleet emissions, waste, and environmental impact
- Lead safety meetings and training sessions to promote a culture of safety excellence
- Ensure compliance with hazardous materials handling and disposal regulations
Budget & Financial Management - Develop and manage annual fleet maintenance budgets including labor, parts, equipment, and services
- Analyze maintenance cost trends, identify cost-saving opportunities, and implement efficiency improvements
- Prepare financial reports, forecasts, and business cases for capital investments
- Control inventory levels and optimize parts procurement strategies to balance availability with carrying costs
- Track and report on budget variance and implement corrective actions
- Manage shop operating expenses and identify opportunities to reduce waste
Technology & Innovation - Implement and optimize fleet management systems, telematics, diagnostic tools, and maintenance software
- Leverage data analytics to drive predictive maintenance strategies and informed decision-making
- Stay current on emerging technologies, alternative fuels, electrification, and industry innovations
- Lead technology adoption initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs
- Evaluate and implement new tools, equipment, and processes to improve maintenance operations
- Support digital transformation and automation initiatives within fleet maintenance
Strategic Planning & Continuous Improvement - Develop long-term fleet maintenance strategies aligned with organizational goals and business objectives
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies
- Benchmark performance against industry standards and implement best practices
- Collaborate with operations, procurement, finance, and safety teams on cross-functional initiatives
- Drive innovation and process improvements to enhance fleet reliability and reduce total cost of ownership
- Develop and execute strategic plans for fleet modernization, alternative fuels, and sustainability
Organizational Values - Demonstrate and promote the Company's Core and Growth Values in all decisions and interactions
- Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and excellence
Qualifications: - High school diploma or GED equivalent required
- Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in fleet maintenance management
- Minimum 5 years in leadership roles managing large-scale fleet operations
- Experience managing diverse vehicle types including light-duty, medium-duty, heavy-duty trucks, and specialty equipment
- Proven track record leading teams of 20+ employees across multiple locations preferred
- Strong technical knowledge of vehicle systems, diagnostics, and repair procedures
- Excellent leadership and organizational skills with ability to manage complex operations
- Strong financial acumen with experience in budget development and cost management
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with ability to influence at all organizational levels
- Proficiency with fleet management systems, telematics platforms, and maintenance software
- Understanding of DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, and EPA regulations
- Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and on-call availability
- Valid driver's license required
Additional Qualifications, Preferred: - Bachelor's degree in Automotive Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent work experience)
- Advanced degree (MBA, Master's in Engineering) or technical certifications
- Experience in logistics, transportation, distribution, or manufacturing environments highly valued
- ASE Master Technician Certification
- Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM)
- Certified Fleet Manager (CFM) through NAFA Fleet Management Association
- Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt)
- CDL (Commercial Driver's License)
- Experience with alternative fuel vehicles and electric vehicle (EV) technology
- Background in implementing fleet maintenance software and telematics systems
- Project management certification (PMP) or experience leading large-scale projects
- Experience in furniture delivery, white-glove service, or specialized fleet operations
Work Environment: This position operates in a combination of office and active maintenance shop environments. The role includes time in climate-controlled office settings for administrative work, planning, and meetings, as well as time in maintenance facilities with moderate to high noise levels, exposure to vehicle exhaust, and equipment operation. The position may require walking through shop areas, climbing into vehicles for inspections, and conducting field visits to multiple maintenance locations. Physical requirements include ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally. The role requires flexibility to respond to emergency situations and work varied hours to support 24/7 fleet operations.
Pay: Competitive compensation based on experience
Benefits We Offer: - Health, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program
- Paid Time Off; increases with years of service
- Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Your Birthday off
- Generous Employee Discount on home furnishings
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Tuition Assistance
- Ashley Wellness Centers (location specific) and Medical Tourism
- Telehealth
- 401(k) and Profit Sharing
- Life Insurance