Head of Fleet

Axis, part of Axis CLC, is a trusted property services specialist delivering responsive repairs, planned works, refurbishments and voids services across the UK. Backed by over 110 years of combined experience and the wider strength of Axis CLC, operating from 23 UK offices and employing more than 2,500 people nationwide, we support housing providers and public sector clients with high-quality maintenance and compliance services that help keep residents safe, properties well maintained and communities supported. The Role We are looking to recruit an experienced Head of Fleet to lead the strategic management and operational performance of our national vehicle fleet. Based from our Head Office in Stratford, East London, the role will involve regular travel across the UK to support operational teams, suppliers and fleet activities. As Head of Fleet, you will take overall responsibility for the procurement, management, compliance and optimisation of the company fleet, ensuring vehicles, systems and suppliers support operational delivery efficiently, safely and cost-effectively. You will play a key leadership role in developing and delivering the Group's fleet strategy, driving supplier standardisation, fleet renewal, electrification, compliance, sustainability initiatives and continuous improvement across the wider business. What You'll Deliver * Lead the strategic and operational management of the company fleet across multiple regions and operational contracts. * Develop and deliver the Group's fleet strategy, ensuring it supports operational performance, commercial objectives, sustainability commitments and future business growth across all business units. * Engage and influence Executive and senior stakeholders, providing strategic advice, performance insights and recommendations to support investment decisions, fleet transformation and long-term planning. * Develop and implement fleet renewal, replacement and decarbonisation strategies aligned to operational requirements, client expectations, sustainability goals and commercial performance. * Drive fleet optimisation initiatives to improve vehicle utilisation, reduce off-road time and maximise operational efficiency across the business. * Lead the development and execution of the company's electric vehicle (EV) strategy, working closely with operational, sustainability and commercial teams to support client requirements, reduce carbon emissions and deliver a practical, cost-effective transition to a lower-emission fleet. * Review and standardise fleet-related supplier agreements, pricing structures and service delivery models to improve consistency, governance and commercial value. * Manage fleet procurement, vehicle replacement programmes, servicing, repairs and supplier relationships across the national fleet. * Oversee fleet compliance activities including MOTs, servicing schedules, inspections, road tax, insurance and driver compliance. * Monitor and manage fleet-related costs including fuel usage, damage, fines, repairs, hire vehicles and maintenance expenditure. * Lead fleet performance reporting, KPI development and operational insight, providing Executive stakeholders with meaningful management information to support strategic decision-making and continuous improvement. * Manage and develop fleet administration and support teams, promoting high standards of service and accountability. * Lead supplier and contractor negotiations, driving service improvements, cost control and operational consistency across the fleet function. * Support the implementation and optimisation of fleet systems, route planning tools and reporting platforms, developing integrated fleet management and control systems that cover all Group companies and enable the business to scale efficiently. * Maintain accurate fleet records and ensure successful completion of internal and external audits. * Promote a strong safety culture across fleet operations, ensuring compliance with all relevant transport, driver and health & safety legislation. About You * Extensive fleet management experience within construction, property services, engineering, logistics or another multi-site operational environment, including developing organisational fleet strategies covering procurement, optimisation, supplier management, fleet renewal and long-term operational planning. * Excellent understanding of commercial vehicle legislation, transport compliance and driver regulations. * Proven experience engaging Executive and senior stakeholders, with the ability to influence strategic decision-making and gain buy-in for fleet investment, transformation and continuous improvement initiatives. * Experience developing and implementing fleet electrification (EV) strategies, including vehicle selection, charging infrastructure, supplier engagement and transition planning. * Strong commercial awareness with experience managing fleet budgets, supplier contracts and operational cost control initiatives. * Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels. * Commercially minded with strong analytical, reporting and problem-solving capabilities. * Experience managing compliance audits, insurance processes and fleet risk management activities. * Strong IT and systems knowledge, including fleet management platforms and Microsoft Office, with experience improving or implementing business systems to support operational performance. * Excellent organisational and communica