Head of Fleet & Compliance

About the Role

The Waitrose Supply Chain team is at the heart of our commitment to delivering quality and excellence to our customers across the UK. We are a collaborative group of professionals dedicated to transforming our logistics network into a more sustainable, efficient, and future ready operation. As we navigate a period of significant optimisation, we are focused on integrating cutting edge technology and innovative fuel solutions to meet our ambitious Partnership Plan targets. We are seeking a visionary Head of Fleet and Compliance to define our long term fleet strategy and uphold the highest standards of safety across the business. This pivotal role requires a leader who can balance commercial acumen with a passion for sustainability, ensuring our fleet of circa 4,500 vehicles remains resilient and agile. You will be instrumental in driving our transition to alternative fuels and fostering a culture of operational excellence and legal compliance.

Compensation & Contract

Salary: £120,000-£185,000
Contract type: Permanent
Working pattern: Hybrid, 3 days a week in office, remaining days flexible
Location: Bracknell Office, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 8YA, with national travel required

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute a pan Partnership fleet strategy that encompasses vehicle specification, procurement, and a transition to alternative fuels like hydrogen and electric to support ESG goals.
• Act as the primary lead for transport legal compliance, ensuring robust auditing processes and safety standards are embedded across the entire network.
• Manage a sizeable budget, leading commercial negotiations with third party suppliers and vendors to ensure maximum return on investment and cost effective asset management.
• Champion the adoption of new in cab technologies, trailer designs, and systems to streamline supply chain management and enhance the end to end customer journey.
• Build influential relationships with cross functional internal teams and represent the Partnership on major industry bodies such as Logistics UK, RHA, and DeFRA.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Significant experience in a senior fleet management position within a complex logistics, supply chain, or fulfilment environment.
• Proven track record of leading large scale commercial fleet negotiations and managing complex contracts with third party service providers.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and empower large, geographically dispersed teams through significant organisational change.
• Deep understanding of transport law and safety regulations, with the ability to mitigate risks and influence future legislation through industry lobbying.
• A strong commercial mindset with the ability to identify opportunities and articulate financial impact to create powerful business cases.
• Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence - National/International.