Job Description
Position Summary
The Dispatch Operations Manager is responsible for leading and optimizing all dispatch operations for fast growing fuel transport company in Southern CA. This role combines hands-on operational execution with strategic customer relationship management and business development. The ideal candidate brings deep fuel transport industry experience and excels at building high-performing teams while maintaining strong customer partnerships. This position serves as a critical bridge between operations, sales, and customer success.
Essential Functions
Operations & Execution (50%)
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Dispatch Coordinators ensuring 24/7/365 operational coverage
- Oversee daily fuel dispatch operations including order processing, driver scheduling, route optimization, and delivery execution
- Monitor and manage fuel allocation, inventory levels, and supplier relationships to maximize efficiency and minimize supply disruptions
- Ensure compliance with all DOT regulations, company safety protocols, and industry best practices
- Analyze operational metrics and implement continuous improvement initiatives to increase fleet utilization and reduce delivery costs
- Coordinate with drivers, terminals, and suppliers to resolve time-sensitive issues including delays, emergencies, and route changes
- Develop and maintain dispatch SOPs, training materials, and performance standards
- Manage shift scheduling, overtime allocation, and workforce planning to maintain service levels
Customer Service & Relationship Management (30%)
- Serve as primary point of contact for key customer accounts, building and maintaining strong partnerships
- Conduct regular business reviews with customers to assess satisfaction, address concerns, and identify service improvement opportunities
- Respond to and resolve escalated customer issues with urgency and professionalism
- Monitor customer automated inventory management systems and ensure keep-full delivery commitments are met
- Represent Elite Fuels at industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events
- Collaborate with customers on forecasting, seasonal planning, and emergency response protocols
Sales & Business Development (20%)
- Support new customer acquisition by participating in sales presentations, site visits, and contract negotiations
- Identify upsell and expansion opportunities within existing accounts
- Provide operational expertise during RFP responses and pricing development
- Gather competitive intelligence and market feedback to inform service offerings
- Partner with sales leadership to develop and execute growth strategies
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 7 years of experience in fuel transportation, petroleum logistics, or bulk liquid hauling operations
- 5+ years in a supervisory or management role overseeing dispatch, logistics, or transportation teams
- Deep understanding of fuel supply chain operations including terminals, rack pricing, allocations, and carrier operations
- Proven track record of building and maintaining customer relationships in B2B service environments
- Strong knowledge of DOT/FMCSA regulations governing hazmat and fuel transportation
- Experience with transportation management systems (TMS), GPS tracking, and dispatch optimization software
- Excellent communication and presentation skills with comfort speaking to executives and at industry events
- Ability to work flexible hours and be on-call for operational emergencies
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with dispatch software such as TMW, FuelWise, PeopleNet, or similar platforms
- Background in retail, commercial, or wholesale fuel distribution
- CDL with Hazmat/Tanker endorsements (or willingness to obtain)
- Experience managing 24/7 operations with rotating shift coverage
- Prior P&L responsibility or budget management experience
Key Competencies
- Leadership: Ability to motivate, develop, and hold teams accountable while fostering a positive work environment
- Customer Focus: Genuine commitment to exceeding customer expectations and building long-term partnerships
- Problem Solving: Quick decision-making under pressure with sound operational judgment
- Communication: Clear, professional communication across all levels from drivers to executives
- Execution: Results-oriented approach with strong follow-through and attention to detail
- Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of fuel transport operations, regulations, and market dynamics
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
- Primarily office-based with regular travel to customer sites, terminals, and industry events (up to 25%)
- Ability to be on-call and respond to operational emergencies outside normal business hours
- May require occasional weekend or holiday availability during peak periods or emergencies
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary: $75,000 - $100,000 based on experience
- Performance bonus opportunity
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development and industry conference attendance
Job Tags
Contract work, Seasonal work, Work at office, Flexible hours, Shift work, Rotating shift,