Strategic Fleet Operations Lead

Ascend; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Ascend in Knoxville seeks an experienced DSD Operations Manager to lead a team of Fleet Managers and Planners, delivering efficient transportation solutions for a major doughnut manufacturer. You will supervise daily operations, manage drivers, monitor loads, and maintain safety and profitability standards while ensuring strong customer relationships.

The role requires 5+ years in operations management in a driver-facing environment, with knowledge of DOT rules.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of operations management experience in a driver-facing role in transportation.
• Working Knowledge of DOT Rules & Regulations.
• Availability to be reached after hours for operational situations, including off days.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations, ensuring safety, legal, ethical, and profitability standards while optimizing efficiency.
• Manage driver performance, including training, coaching, and disciplinary actions, while administering safety programs.
• Monitor loads proactively, addressing service failures, weather delays, and equipment issues with timely communication.
• Enhance customer relationships and collaborate with vendors to streamline equipment management.
• Lead problem resolution by identifying inefficiencies, analyzing metrics, and implementing process improvements.
• Review operational performance with leadership and adjust workflows to meet customer demands.
• Ensure effective communication across operations, drivers, and all levels of management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team development

DOT knowledge

KPI-driven

Decision-making

Relationship building

Planning

Safety culture

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor’s Degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

TMW

PeopleNet

Job description

Ascend in Knoxville seeks an experienced DSD Operations Manager to lead a team of Fleet Managers and Planners, delivering efficient transportation solutions for a major doughnut manufacturer. You will supervise daily operations, manage drivers, monitor loads, and maintain safety and profitability standards while ensuring strong customer relationships.

The role requires 5+ years in operations management in a driver-facing environment, with knowledge of DOT rules.