Essential Job Functions:

Inventory & Procurement Management:

Oversee inventory movements and adjust levels to meet fleet maintenance needs, ensuring alignment with shop and service truck requirements. Implement strategies to minimize obsolete inventory and enhance the efficiency of returns. Collaborate with shop managers and mechanics to maintain accurate and timely parts orders. Develop and refine purchasing strategies that anticipate fleet needs and promote cost-efficiency, including periodic spend analysis to optimize stock levels.

Vendor & Supplier Relations:

Foster strong, proactive relationships with OEM representatives, national vendor sales teams, and local warehouse partners to ensure consistent parts availability. Evaluate vendor performance regularly, address issues constructively, and maintain alignment with the organization’s quality and service standards. Manage parts returns, core returns, and warranty claims effectively to ensure accuracy, tracking, and timely resolution.

Operational Efficiency & Compliance:

Develop and oversee productivity measures within the department to support operational goals. Conduct regular parts audits and participate in periodic spot counts at inventory locations, identifying opportunities for process improvement. Maintain compliance with established inventory control procedures to minimize potential inventory loss and streamline operations.

Parts Ordering & Processing:

Manage purchase orders, oversee parts receipt, and coordinate parts transfers across various shop locations. Ensure up-to-date knowledge and proficiency in fleet maintenance systems and software, supporting seamless parts management and team communication.

Overall Parts Department Performance:

Lead the parts department in meeting evolving fleet maintenance objectives and supporting broader KPIs, with a focus on optimizing fleet availability and cost control. Facilitate team alignment with company policies, department procedures, and safety standards, ensuring readiness to support company-wide goals.

Training & Employee Development:

Create and implement training programs to enhance staff expertise in parts management, procurement, and operational processes. Communicate clear objectives and milestones for team development, fostering a goal-oriented approach that aligns with Fleet Maintenance Department targets.

Minimum Qualifications:

Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a closely related field is strongly preferred. Equivalent professional experience in parts management or fleet maintenance will also be considered for candidates demonstrating a strong track record in similar roles.

 

Industry Experience: Minimum of 5 years in parts management, procurement, or supply chain within fleet maintenance operations, with proven expertise in optimizing inventory and procurement strategies to support large-scale fleet management.

 

Technical Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of industry-standard vehicles and equipment, including Freightliner, Navistar, or similar class 7 & 8 trucks, 53' dry vans, and Thermoking refrigeration systems, with the ability to evaluate parts specifications and ensure compliance with fleet maintenance requirements.

 

Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) along with hands-on experience in industry-specific fleet management software (e.g., parts inventory systems, ERP, or CMMS platforms) to streamline parts ordering and inventory tracking.

 

Leadership & Communication: Strong leadership and communication skills to effectively coordinate with OEM representatives, national and local vendors, and cross-functional internal teams. The candidate should demonstrate an ability to negotiate, resolve issues, and build long-term vendor partnerships that align with organizational goals.

 

Adaptability & Commitment: Willingness to work flexible or extended hours as required to meet evolving business needs, particularly in high-demand or time-sensitive situations, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining optimal fleet performance.