Senior Manager, Fleet Operations

Smithfield Foods•Suffolk, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Manager of Fleet Operations will lead the strategic direction, performance, and continuous improvement of our private fleet operations across multiple regions. This role is responsible for developing and executing fleet strategies that drive efficiency, safety, cost optimization, and compliance with all federal, state, and local transportation regulations. The position oversees vehicle acquisition, maintenance, fuel management, telematics, and vendor relationships to ensure the company’s fleet supports business needs while maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability. The Senior Manager partners closely with Supply Chain, Operations, and Safety leadership to implement innovative solutions that enhance fleet performance, reduce environmental impact, and support Smithfield’s operational excellence and sustainability goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university and 8+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
Proven success in leading fleet or dedicated operations, including driver recruitment, safety programs, and cost optimization.
2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management/development or project leadership is required.
Organized, results-driven, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment while managing competing priorities and complex operational challenges.
Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
Knowledge of fleet operations, vehicle maintenance programs, DOT/FMCSA regulations, safety compliance, and logistics management systems.
Proven ability to lead high-performing teams, drive accountability, and build a culture of safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
Demonstrated experience managing budgets, analyzing cost structures, and using data to optimize fleet utilization and reduce total cost of ownership.
Experience implementing and leveraging telematics, fleet management software, and analytics tools to enhance operational transparency and performance.
Ability to manage complex vendor relationships and ensure high-quality, cost-effective service delivery.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build partnerships and collaborate effectively across departments and leadership levels.
Forward-thinking leader who can identify emerging trends and implement innovative solutions that align with business and environmental goals.
Organized, results-driven, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment while managing competing priorities and complex operational challenges.

Nice To Haves

Experience with temperature controlled and/or the perishable foods industry preferred.
Experience with SAP or other TMS systems.
Experience with the latest Fleet Management systems including dispatch tools, telematics, other relevant technologies.
Ability to motivate transportation team with a focus on maintaining a high level of morale.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a comprehensive fleet management strategy focused on safety, efficiency, compliance, and cost optimization across all business units.
Oversee daily fleet operations, including vehicle procurement, utilization, maintenance, and lifecycle management, ensuring maximum uptime and performance.
Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and local transportation regulations, DOT requirements, and company safety standards through proactive monitoring and training initiatives.
Develop and manage fleet budgets, control expenses, and identify opportunities for cost reduction through improved utilization, fuel efficiency, and vendor negotiations.
Partner internally and assist with contract negotiations and manage relationships with external partners, including leasing companies, maintenance providers, fuel vendors, and technology suppliers.
Drive the implementation and optimization of fleet management systems and telematics tools to enhance visibility, safety, and performance tracking.
Identify and implement sustainable fleet initiatives such as alternative fuels, electrification, and emissions reduction strategies in alignment with Smithfield’s environmental goals.
Partner with Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, and EHS teams to align fleet operations with business objectives and improve service delivery across the organization.
Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate fleet performance, identify trends, and drive data-informed decision-making.
Travel up to 25% required to visit fleet operations, vendors, and Smithfield locations across the U.S. to ensure strategic alignment and operational excellence.
Drives a positive employee experience through leadership by way of employee development and coaching.