Head of Fleet

Head of Fleet

£79,576 per annum - Grade 12

Leeds / Hybrid Full time / Permanent - 37 hours per week

Closing date –12 July at 23:55

Please note that the Combined Authority will consider requests for part-time working and/or job share. We currently have a vacancy for a Head of Fleet to join our Transport Services team.

This newly created role will be central to shaping a better connected, more sustainable West Yorkshire as we deliver Bus Franchising and the Weaver Network. As our subject matter expert for bus fleet strategy and delivery, you will lead the development and operation of a low-emission, cost-efficient and customer-focused fleet that supports the Combined Authority’s franchising model, sustainability ambitions and long-term transport vision.

As Head of Fleet, you will provide inspiring leadership across all aspects of fleet planning, procurement and mobilisation - defining vehicle requirements, building strong supplier relationships and driving the transition to zero-emission technologies. Working closely with service operators and internal asset teams, you will champion compliance with fleet standards, strengthen depot operating environments and help deliver the infrastructure needed for a modern, future-ready fleet. You will shape the ongoing evolution of WYCA’s fleet strategy, developing a preferred fleet profile that ensures we are fully prepared for bus franchising in 2027 while supporting bold transformation beyond 2028. You will also provide strategic oversight of supply chain resilience and risk management, safeguarding delivery, operational continuity and long-term value for the region.

This is a rare opportunity to lead meaningful change, drive innovation and help deliver a transport network the region can be proud of.

Our Offer

· Work your way – From flexible and agile working options, including a generous flexi-time scheme to help you balance your personal life and career.

· Time to recharge – Enjoy 28 days of annual leave (with increases based on length of service), plus all Bank Holidays.

· Free greener travel across West Yorkshire – Cover your commute sustainably with unlimited free bus and rail travel using the MCard (Zones 1–5).

· Secure your future – Benefit from a highly competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.

· Investing in you –Take advantage of supported professional development, regular training, and up to 3 paid volunteering days per year.

· Grow with us – Incremental salary progression for most roles and annual cost of living increases.

· Family first – We offer enhanced parental and bereavement leave, plus other family-friendly policies to support you when it matters most.

· Your wellbeing, our priority – Access 24/7 free confidential counselling services and the Headspace app for you and up to 5 family or friends.

· Modern workspace in a prime location – Work in bright, contemporary offices just a 2-minute walk from Leeds Train Station, fully equipped with the latest tech.

The Role

Reporting into the Director of Transport Services, your key responsibilities will include:

· Engaging with manufacturers and incumbent operators, contributing to commercial negotiations, supporting financial modelling and legal contracting, and managing the transition of vehicles into the franchised network and between franchised operators upon renewal.

· Lead the development of comprehensive fleet specifications, covering technical performance and compliance, accessibility, safety features, ITS integration, branding, and passenger experience.

· Drive the delivery of WYCA’s Zero-Emission Bus (ZEB) strategy, including route and depot suitability assessments, infrastructure and feasibility planning, ensuring all fleet development supports WYCA’s climate emergency net zero 2038 target and transition to a cleaner, greener bus network.

Please review the Role Profile on our website for more information about the responsibilities.

About You

You will have the following key skills, attributes, education, and experience:

· Extensive practical experience of successfully performing in a similar role with an understanding of fleet procurement, maintenance and decarbonisation gained through comprehensive experience in the field.

· Strategic expertise in fleet management, vehicle procurement, technical specification design, maintenance, compliance, and zero-emission technology.

· Significant experience working with or within complex political and stakeholder environments, including local authorities or MCAs and proven capability of robust management of contracts, multi-million-pound budgets and business cases in complex delivery environments.

· Extensive leadership experience in developing and delivering fleet strategy, procurement, and operations in complex transport, logistics, or public sector contexts.

· Ability to apply financial and commercial principles, including developing compelling business cases, contract negotiation, and effective budget management.

· Experience in delivering zero-emission vehicle programmes, including EV feasibility and infrastructure planning along with knowledge of emerging technologies including ITS, telematics, and other technologies to enhance fleet performance is desirable.

To Apply

If this sounds like your next role, please complete the application form and tell us within the supporting statement why you would be a great fit for our role and how your skills, knowledge and experience align with the requirements within the Role Profile. Please visit our Advice for Candidates webpage and review the guidance on this page for support in completing your application form.

Further Information

The Combined Authority is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds create a stronger and more creative work environment that delivers better outcomes. We welcome applications irrespective of people's age, disability, neuro-divergence, sex, gender identity and gender expression, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, or other personal circumstances. We have policies and procedures in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability and/or who are neuro divergent. To find out more about inclusivity at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority please visit our dedicated webpage.

Under the Disability Confident Scheme, applicants with a disability are guaranteed an interview, subject to the minimum criteria being met