Assistant Rental Manager

Our client is seeking an Assistant Rental Manager, to be responsible for managing all logistical aspects of their rental operation for a large diverse fleet of commercial vehicles operated by a large cross section of business clients. Working closely with the Vehicle Movements Coordinator you will ensure that the vehicles are delivered to clients in a “ready to rent” condition ensuring that our customers’ expectations are met each time. They thrive on creating a culture where people can flourish so being able to motivate and develop the careers of your subordinates is essential.

Managing and supporting the team through effective 1:2:1’s and appraisals or providing corrective coaching on a day-to-day basis is a vital part of being successful in this role. It’s a fast-paced environment so your ability to think on your feet and manage and influence others is key to success.

Your Responsibilities:

• Embed a robust ready to rent and yard check process for the rental department and ensure that this is continually monitored - Ready to Rent (R2R).
• Motivating and encouraging our team to achieve a high level of R2R vehicles.
• For every rental agreement raised ensure that evidence of vehicle compliance, a signed rental agreement and a signed vehicle check sheet exists for every hire/de-hire.
• Be proactive in negotiating a bespoke solution to each rental request – seek first to understand the customer requirements and provide a solution that meets those requirements without sacrificing company priorities of profit margin or company resources.
• Negotiate with suppliers for third party resources where required e.g. cross hire vehicles and ensure the costs are closely controlled and purchase invoices are processed in a timely manner.
• Assist the Rental Manager in general yard management, making efficient and effective use of the space available.
• Challenge customer demands where necessary and resolve any queries or instances of customer complaint in a positive and effective manner.
• Work closely with the purchasing team to ensure that the onsite fuel tanks always hold an adequate stock and manage the reordering of fuel when necessary.
• Support the Rental Desk Operative in the planning of both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance ensuring our fleet remains compliant.
• Monitor and report on all vehicles off the road and take proactive responsibility to minimise downtime; vehicle availability is key to maintaining high levels of utilisation.
• Work with our workshops, body shop, and 3rd party suppliers to get vehicles back on the road swiftly.
• Participation would be required in the rota systems for Saturdays.

You will need:

• Prior experience working within the commercial vehicle environment.
• Experience in vehicle Rental Management would be advantageous.
• Experience in managing a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient user of Microsoft Office packages.
• Leadership and organisational abilities.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• Experience in driving/transport.
• Knowledge of legislation and requirements on the driving team to help manage and support the driving fraternity.

To succeed, you will need to:

• Be a great communicator, both verbal and written.
• Have strong interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate, coach and develop others.
• Embrace the company’s ‘can do’ culture, taking responsibility and ownership.
• Demonstrate keen attention to detail.
• Take initiative and be proactive, always thinking ahead.
• The ability to multi-task whilst under pressure.
• Confident to collaborate and build excellent relationships with wider departments.
• Be considerate in your approach.
• Be passionate about driving your career.