Director, Vendor Performance Management (Cox Automotive Fleet Client Solutions and Delivery)

Cox Automotive • Cherryville, NC

29d • Remote

About The Position

Preferred locations for this position are Cherryville, NC; Indianapolis, IN; or Atlanta, GA. However, candidates in other locations will be considered with an increased travel requirement of up to 35%. The Director, Vendor Performance Management leads the strategic development and operational execution of Cox Automotive's Service Provider Network (SPN), a critical component of the Mobility division. This role is responsible for shaping and scaling a digitally connected, data-driven service ecosystem that supports nationwide vendor relationships, ensures compliance, and delivers exceptional client experiences. The Director will drive innovation in service delivery, optimize vendor management, and lead cross-functional initiatives to elevate operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Requirements

• Minimum Bachelor's degree in a related discipline and 10 years' experience in a related field (fleet maintenance, fleet services, etc.). The right candidate could also have a different combination, such as a master's degree and 8 years' experience; a Ph.D. and 5 years' experience in a related field; or 14 years' experience in a related field
• 5+ years' experience in a management or leadership role
• Proven track record in scaling vender networks, management compliance, and leading cross-functional teams.
• Expertise in process improvement, operational excellence, and change management.
• Strong executive communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Degree in related discipline strongly desired

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the long-term vision for SPN operations, aligning with broader organizational goals.
• Lead transformation initiatives to evolve SPN into a high-growth, scalable model using proprietary fleet technology and automated service platforms.
• Serve as the executive sponsor for service provider advocacy, representing the voice of the provider at the highest levels of the organization.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive performance management framework for service providers, including setting clear KPIs, service standards, and compliance requirements.
• Regularly assess service provider performance using data-driven analytics, customer feedback, and operational metrics; identify underperforming vendors and initiate corrective action plans.
• Facilitate quarterly and annual performance reviews with service providers, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Recognize and reward high-performing service providers, fostering a culture of excellence and partnership across the network.
• Oversee day-to-day SPN operations including vendor onboarding, insurance compliance, dispute resolution, and service delivery.
• Collaborate with internal teams (Product, Sales, Finance, Customer Care) to ensure seamless integration and execution of SPN services.
• Lead resolution of complex vendor issues, ensuring root cause analysis and sustainable solutions.
• Act as a trusted advisor to business executives and external partners, driving by-in and strategic alignment.
• Manage and mentor a team of SPN specialists and operational staff, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee budget planning and resource allocation for SPN operations.
• Ensure profitability and operational efficiency across legacy and new service provider engagements.
• All other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• The Company offers eligible employees the flexibility to take as much vacation with pay as they deem consistent with their duties, the company's needs, and its obligations; seven paid holidays throughout the calendar year; and up to 160 hours of paid wellness annually for their own wellness or that of family members.
• Employees are also eligible for additional paid time off in the form of bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.
• Benefits of working at Cox may include health care insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement planning (401(k)), and paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, flexible vacation/wellness days, and/or PTO).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees