Fleet Operations Manager - Durban Port

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Annual performance bonus

Paid annual leave

Professional development allowances

On-site port facilities amenities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Fleet Operations Manager for Durban, overseeing a large fleet of trucks and port equipment. The role combines on-site port operations with strategic, remote planning to optimize efficiency and regulatory compliance.

You will lead a team of supervisors, mechanics, and drivers, manage maintenance programs, and drive cost control and modernization efforts across the fleet.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of fleet management experience with 3+ years in supervision/management.
• Strong knowledge of maritime logistics, port operations and heavy equipment.
• Proven budget control and leadership capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement fleet management strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Oversee daily operations of trucks, port equipment, and service vehicles.
• Manage maintenance programs including preventive maintenance and repairs.
• Ensure compliance with maritime safety and environmental regulations.
• Lead and mentor fleet supervisors, mechanics, and drivers.
• Monitor performance metrics and generate reports to drive improvements.
• Manage vendor relationships for parts, fuel, and maintenance.
• Lead fleet safety programs and driver training initiatives.
• Oversee the fleet operations budget and capital expenditure.
• Drive modernization and adoption of new technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Strategic planning

Data analysis

Communication

Fleet management software

ERP systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics/SCM/Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Fleet management software

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the maritime logistics sector, is seeking an experienced and strategic Fleet Operations Manager to oversee their extensive fleet operations based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior role demands a proactive leader capable of managing a large fleet of specialized vehicles and equipment critical to port operations. The manager will be responsible for optimizing fleet efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing maintenance schedules, and leading a team of operational staff. Given the nature of port operations, this role will involve a hybrid work model, allowing for significant on-site presence at the Durban port facilities combined with flexible remote workdays for strategic planning and administrative tasks. This is a critical position for ensuring the continuous and efficient movement of goods through one of Africa's busiest ports.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive fleet management strategies to enhance operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Oversee the daily operations of a diverse fleet, including trucks, specialized port equipment, and service vehicles.
• Manage fleet maintenance programs, including preventative maintenance schedules and repairs, to minimize downtime.
• Ensure full compliance with all national and international maritime regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of fleet supervisors, mechanics, and drivers.
• Monitor fleet performance metrics, analyze data, and generate reports to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Manage relationships with external vendors, suppliers, and service providers for parts, fuel, and maintenance.
• Implement and manage fleet safety programs and driver training initiatives.
• Oversee the budget for fleet operations, including capital expenditure and operational costs.
• Lead initiatives for fleet modernization and the adoption of new technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus. Minimum of 7 years of experience in fleet management, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role, preferably within a port or heavy industry environment. Strong understanding of maritime logistics, port operations, and related equipment. Proven experience in managing large and diverse fleets, including heavy-duty vehicles and specialized machinery. Expertise in fleet maintenance, repair, and workshop management. In-depth knowledge of relevant safety regulations, environmental laws, and compliance standards. Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills. Proficiency in fleet management software and ERP systems. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a strategic mindset. Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and control costs effectively.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive annual salary of R , reflecting the seniority and scope of responsibilities. Our client provides an executive health insurance package, comprehensive retirement savings plan, and an annual bonus based on performance metrics. Significant opportunities for career advancement within the group are available. The hybrid work model allows for a flexible approach to work within the Durban metropolitan area. Additional benefits include paid annual leave, professional development allowances, and access to on-site amenities. Our client is committed to fostering a stimulating and collaborative work environment in Durban .