Vice President, Fleet Operations

Company Description

AWP Safety is North America’s leading traffic control and work zone safety partner, protecting the crews who build our infrastructure and the communities that rely on it. With more than 6,000 Protectors across the U.S. and Canada, we support construction, utility, municipal, and infrastructure projects with dependable traffic control services that keep people safe and keep projects moving.

Safety is Life at AWP Safety. Our people are the core of our business, and every role directly supports our mission to protect workers, drivers, and communities. Many team members start in entry-level traffic control or flagger positions, where we provide paid training, industry-leading safety practices, and opportunities to advance into leadership and operations roles.

We are a fast-growing, purpose-driven organization committed to operational excellence, customer service, and continuous improvement. If you want a career where your work truly matters—and where safety, teamwork, and development are top priorities—you belong at AWP Safety.

Job Description

The Vice President of Fleet Operations is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational performance, safety, compliance, and financial management of the company’s fleet operations. This executive role oversees fleet strategy, vehicle lifecycle management, maintenance operations, fuel management, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency initiatives across all fleet assets.

The VP of Fleet Operations partners with executive leadership to align transportation and fleet capabilities with organizational goals while driving safety, reliability, cost control, and service excellence.

This position operates under a hybrid work model, with employees expected to work onsite in our Columbus or North Canton, Ohio office multiple days each week. Candidates should reside within commuting distance of the office or be willing to relocate. Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute long-term fleet operations strategy aligned with company objectives.
• Lead initiatives focused on operational efficiency, scalability, sustainability, and technology integration.
• Establish KPIs, dashboards, and performance metrics to monitor fleet effectiveness.
• Provide executive leadership for fleet growth, replacement cycles, and capital planning.

Fleet Operations Management

• Oversee operations for all company-owned and leased vehicles and equipment.
• Direct maintenance programs to maximize uptime and minimize operating costs.
• Ensure efficient utilization and asset management practices.
• Lead fuel management strategies and cost-containment initiatives.

Safety & Compliance

• Promote a culture of safety throughout the organization.
• Ensure compliance with DOT, FMCSA, EPA, and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Maintain fleet audit readiness and regulatory documentation.

Financial Management

• Manage fleet operating budgets, capital expenditures, and cost forecasting.
• Analyze operational data to improve profitability and reduce total cost of ownership.
• Provide expertise and leadership during negotiations with vendors, OEMs, maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, and leasing companies.
• Identify opportunities for operational savings and process improvement.

Team Leadership

• Lead and develop fleet managers, maintenance leaders, and operational staff.
• Build succession plans and leadership development initiatives.
• Foster accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement across fleet operations.
• Partner with HR on recruiting, retention, and workforce planning.

Technology & Innovation

• Drive continuous improvement of telematics, fleet management systems, GPS tracking, EV integration, and maintenance software.
• Utilize data analytics to improve operational decision-making and performance.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and industry trends to maintain competitive advantage.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Logistics, Transportation, Engineering, or related field.  Master’s degree preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive fleet or transportation leadership experience.
• 5+ years in senior leadership or executive-level operations management.
• Strong knowledge of DOT/FMCSA regulations and fleet compliance standards.
• Proven experience managing large-scale fleet operations and budgets.
• Strong analytical, financial, and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational abilities.

Preferred

• Experience with multi-site or national fleet operations.
• Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) or similar certification.
• Experience leading fleet electrification or sustainability initiatives.

Additional Information

• Salary range is $210,000-$245,0000 plus an annual bonus.
• Benefits-eligible 1st of the month following hire.
• All traditional benefits are offered, including 3 medical plan options and 2 dental plan options, as well as additional benefits such as Legal and Identity Shield, Accident, and Critical Illness
• Company paid 50k in basic life insurance.
• Company paid LTD.
• Health Savings and Flex Spending Accounts Available
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
• AWP named one of America’s Greatest Workplaces 2023 and 2025 for Diversity

AWP Safety is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, national origin, ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, protected veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.