What is a Fleet Manager?

A fleet manager is defined as an individual who has been employed by an organisation to undertake the responsibility of managing their commercial vehicle fleet while overseeing the operations it carries out. The role embodies a diverse range of tasks, and each fleet comes with its own set of unique challenges which these managers must address.

To give you a more specific view on the matter, we’ve put together this guide which comprehensively covers everything related to the role of the fleet manager.

What does a Fleet Manager do?

Fundamentally, all fleet managers share the core aim of optimising their fleet so as to maximise its fuel efficiency and thereby reduce the associated cost and environmental impact, increase its health and safety standards to ensure the wellbeing of their drivers and other road users, as well as reduce its overall operational costs to improve the financial performance of the fleet as a whole. Having said this, the daily tasks of each fleet manager will vary from organisation to organisation.

What are the Duties and Responsibilities of a Fleet Manager?

Fleet managers are responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Fleet vehicle tracking

Fleet vehicle tracking is essential because it gives fleet managers an overview of their fleet’s on-road performance. Fleet managers use GPS technology and other hardware to monitor the real-time location, status, and condition of their vehicles in addition to their drivers’ behaviour.

• Fleet reporting and analysis

On the back of vehicle tracking, fleet managers must then turn the metrics generated into reports. Such reports contain the key performance indicators (KPIs) of a fleet, as well as highlight those points where it falls short. This might refer to information concerning idling, vehicle utilisation, and fuel consumption.

• Fleet asset utilisation

Asset utilisation ensures that the vehicles and other assets within the fleet are being used as efficiently as possible. Fleet managers must monitor and analyse the performance and utilisation rates of each vehicle to identify underused assets. This can involve tracking vehicle usage patterns, load capacities, and idle times to make sure that vehicles are operating at their full potential without unnecessary downtime or wear. Effective asset utilisation also helps in identifying opportunities for fleet downsizing or expansion when necessary.

• Maintaining fleet compliance

Fleet managers must meet compliance to confirm that all operations meet legal, environmental, and safety regulations. Fleet managers are responsible for conducting regular checks and audits to ensure that vehicles meet set standards and that drivers comply with regulations, such as driving hours. Failure to adhere to compliance requirements can result in costly fines, legal action, and damage to a company’s reputation. Therefore, a fleet manager must implement processes to monitor, track, and report compliance, as well as maintain documentation for audits and inspections.

• Fleet driver management

Driver management is of paramount significance to fleet managers, focusing on ensuring that drivers are equipped, trained, and motivated to perform their duties safely and efficiently. Fleet managers are responsible for recruiting, training, and continuously evaluating drivers to guarantee they meet safety standards, company policies, and legal requirements. Effective driver management also includes monitoring driver behaviour through telematics systems to identify unsafe practices such as speeding, harsh braking, or excessive idling. By implementing driver incentive programmes and offering ongoing training, fleet managers can encourage safe and fuel-efficient driving habits.

• Fleet vehicle acquisition and remarketing

Alongside maintaining the condition of their existing vehicles, fleet managers are also responsible for acquiring new ones and selling the old ones off. A shrewd vehicle acquisition and remarketing strategy has the potential to save a fleet thousands. In essence, a fleet manager must negotiate cost-effective purchasing plans and leasing deals at competitive rates while determining the most lucrative timing for vehicle replacement.

• Fleet accident management

Accident management is a crucial responsibility for fleet managers, as it involves handling incidents efficiently to minimise damage and disruption. This includes ensuring that drivers follow the correct procedures in the event of an accident, such as reporting the incident promptly and accurately. Fleet managers must also assess the situation, liaise with insurance companies, and coordinate repairs, while guaranteeing compliance with any legal requirements. Proper accident management both reduces the cost of claims and repairs and helps to maintain the safety of drivers.

• Fleet vehicle maintenance

Vehicle maintenance is a cornerstone of effective fleet management. Fleet managers must ensure that every vehicle in their fleet remains in optimal working condition, reducing the risk of breakdowns and minimising costly repairs. This involves establishing a routine maintenance schedule for all vehicles, which includes oil changes, tyre rotations, brake checks, and addressing any wear and tear that could impact vehicle performance or safety. Preventative maintenance is key to reducing downtime and prolonging the lifespan of fleet vehicles.

• Fleet fuel management

Fuel management is a critical aspect of fleet operations, as fuel costs often represent one of the largest ongoing expenses. Fleet managers are responsible for ensuring the efficient use of fuel by implementing strategies to reduce consumption and optimise fuel costs. This includes monitoring fuel usage across the fleet, identifying trends, and addressing issues such as inefficient driving practices or tyre pressure. Utilising fuel management systems that track consumption, detect anomalies, and provide actionable insights can significantly reduce costs and maximise the overall efficiency of the fleet.

• Optimised route planning

Route planning plays an important role in solidifying the efficiency of a fleet’s operations. Fleet managers must strategically plan and optimise routes for their drivers to minimise fuel consumption, reduce travel time, and improve overall operational efficiency. By analysing traffic patterns, weather conditions, and vehicle capabilities, fleet managers can design routes that avoid congested areas and maximise productivity. Effective route planning also involves factoring in delivery schedules, vehicle load capacities, and road restrictions, making sure that each journey is completed safely and on time.

What Skills and Qualifications do you need to become a Fleet Manager?

Owing to the eclectic nature of the fleet manager position, you’re generally required to possess a varied skill set in addition to a certain level of education and experience.

Fleet manager education and training requirements

To become a fleet manager, many employers require a candidate to have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as supply chain management, logistics and transport management, or business administration. Although, it should be said that a degree isn’t an absolute requirement in order to become a fleet manager.

Moreover, it’s beneficial for a candidate to have professional qualifications like those which are offered by The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) in the UK. The profession can also be entered through an apprenticeship.

Fleet manager experience requirements

Fleet managers often have at least two years of experience in a similar role. Beyond starting off as a fleet manager apprentice or trainee, this can constitute a background in other supervisory or managerial positions too. In effect, a candidate wanting to be a fleet manager must exhibit that they are capable of managing staff, compiling reports and analysing data, as well as maintaining safety and compliance during operations.

Fleet manager general competency requirements

• Organisational skills to keep on top of concurrent duties
• Interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with personnel and upper management
• Leadership skills to guide and instruct a team of drivers
• Analytical skills to accurately assess fleet data
• Problem-solving skills in order to adapt to a changing environment.
• Writing proficiency to produce reports and documentation
• Technical proficiency to make use of applicable industry software and hardware
• Knowledge of regulations and safety laws to ensure compliance
• Financial literacy to manage a fleet’s budget and control costs

What is another title for a Fleet Manager?

Depending on the industry, business, company, or the particular responsibilities they handle, fleet managers can be referred to by other titles including fleet supervisor, fleet administrator, fleet director, fleet operations manager, or fleet services manager.

How much does a Fleet Manager make?

As of 2025, the average base salary for a fleet manager in the UK is £42,033 (source). However, earning figures differ greatly and ultimately depend upon a fleet manager’s location, experience, level of qualifications, and employer.

What are the Challenges Faced by Fleet Managers?

Taking all we’ve said into account, it’s evident that the role of the fleet manager is singularly multifaceted. And so, naturally, this means that fleet managers face multiple challenges on a day-to-day basis.

This is especially true in today’s environmental context, where the transportation sector is collectively striving towards meeting fleet sustainability goals. Of course, this is a matter of great urgence, but nevertheless fleet managers have the burdensome task of finding the opportune moment and funding necessary to transition to a green fleet. Likewise, they must promote eco-driving and explore alternative fuels all while keeping up their productivity margins.

Even despite the directly present issues, fleet managers have always needed to strike a delicate balance between reducing costs, minimising fuel wastage, improving driver safety, maintaining compliance, scheduling vehicle servicing and maintenance, as well as grasping the vast array of data generated by their fleet, almost all at once. Consequently, the primary challenge faced by fleet managers today is preventing themselves from becoming overwhelmed by the demands of their role.

Fleet Management Solutions to Overcome the Challenges

It wouldn’t be feasible for fleet managers to accomplish all of the above without the aid of modern technology. Indeed, advancements in fleet management software and hardware have facilitated the role of the fleet manager to a considerable degree in recent years.

It’s for this reason why we have designed solutions which integrate leading fleet management hardware and software. Yet, we distinguish ourselves from others in our providing of a cutting-edge consultative service. We understand first-hand the challenges which fleet managers are required to overcome, and so we do more than simply provide fleet managers with tools, we offer data-driven action plans to enhance your fleet at every level.

We at MICHELIN Connected Fleet believe in a more productive, safe, compliant, and sustainable transportation industry. This is realised in our fleet management solutions which streamline the road to fleet optimisation, in turn, bringing an innumerable host of benefits.

If you’re interested in how we help fleet managers with everything their role involves, then be sure to contact us today. For further related reading, feel free to browse our resources center.