Senior Fleet Controller, Akasia, South Africa

Our client us searching for a Senior Fleet Controller to join their team in Akasia.

Job Purpose

The Senior Fleet Controller is responsible for the efficient, safe, and cost-effective operation of the vehicle fleet. The role ensures optimal fleet utilisation, compliance with legislation, on-time deliveries, and high service levels. This position requires close coordination with drivers, workshop personnel, customers, and management, as well as leadership of junior fleet controllers.

Key Responsibilities

Fleet Operations & Control

• Plan, coordinate, and monitor daily fleet movements
• Allocate vehicles and drivers according to operational requirements, load specifications, and legal limits
• Monitor vehicle tracking systems and respond proactively to delays or incidents
• Maximise fleet utilisation while minimising downtime and empty kilometres

Driver Management

• Manage driver schedules, routes, and shifts
• Ensure compliance with road traffic laws, driving hours, and rest periods
• Handle driver incidents, breakdowns, and disciplinary matters in conjunction with management
• Conduct driver briefings and performance monitoring

Legal Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with all transport legislation, permits, and licensing requirements
• Monitor vehicle roadworthiness, PDPs, permits, and insurance documentation
• Investigate accidents, incidents, and near misses and compile reports
• Promote and enforce a strong safety culture

Fleet & Workshop Coordination

• Coordinate preventive maintenance, servicing, and repairs with the workshop
• Monitor defect reports and ensure timeous repairs
• Arrange breakdown recovery and replacement vehicles when required
• Track maintenance-related downtime and vehicle availability

Cost Control & Performance Monitoring

• Monitor fuel consumption, tyre usage, and maintenance costs
• Identify inefficiencies and implement cost-saving measures
• Track KPIs such as fuel economy, delivery performance, and breakdown frequency
• Compile daily, weekly, and monthly operational reports

Customer & Internal Communication

• Communicate delivery status and delays to customers
• Resolve operational issues professionally and efficiently
• Liaise with internal departments including logistics, warehouse, and management

Leadership & Administration

• Supervise and mentor junior fleet controllers
• Maintain accurate operational records and documentation
• Assist with internal and external audits
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• Diploma or Certificate in Transport Management or Logistics (advantageous)
• Minimum of 5 years fleet control or transport operations experience
• At least 2 years in a senior or supervisory role preferred
• English and Afrikaans

Technical Skills

• Knowledge of fleet tracking and transport management systems
• Strong understanding of transport legislation and compliance
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting
• Mechanical knowledge of heavy commercial vehicles (advantageous)
• Experience in handling taut liners - no busses, 3 or 5 ton trucks, no rental vehicles, etc - must be taut liners.

Key Competencies

• Strong leadership and decision-making skills
• Excellent planning, organisational, and multitasking ability
• High attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and conflict management skills

Working Conditions

• High-pressure operational environment
• After-hours availability
• Office-based