Vice President of Safety - Trucking

The Senior Director of Safety is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing the company's enterprise-wide safety, compliance, and risk management programs across all terminals, distribution centers, and operating locations. This role ensures full compliance with FMCSA, DOT, OSHA, and state/local regulations, drives a proactive safety culture among drivers and staff, and works to reduce accidents, claims, and regulatory violations company-wide. This is a senior leadership position with direct accountability for safety outcomes across the entire fleet and workforce. Location Elizabeth, NJ Key Responsibilities Safety Program Leadership Design, implement, and continuously improve a unified safety management system (SMS) across all locations Establish company-wide safety policies, standard operating procedures, and best practices Set annual safety goals, KPIs, and benchmarks; report performance to executive leadership and the board Regulatory Compliance Ensure full compliance with FMCSR, DOT, OSHA, EPA, and state-specific trucking regulations Maintain and oversee CSA/BASIC scores, driver qualification files, hours-of-service (HOS) compliance, and ELD systems Serve as primary contact for DOT audits, FMCSA reviews, and regulatory investigations Monitor drug and alcohol testing programs (DOT-mandated) for compliance Multi-Location Oversight Oversee safety managers/coordinators at each terminal or regional location, providing guidance, training, and performance management Conduct regular site visits and audits across all locations to assess compliance and identify risk Standardize safety training, onboarding, and certification programs fleet-wide Ensure consistent incident reporting and investigation protocols across all sites Lead accident/incident investigation processes; identify root causes and corrective actions Manage relationships with insurance carriers, claims adjusters, and legal counsel on safety-related matters Analyze safety data and trends to proactively address risk exposure Oversee vehicle maintenance compliance and equipment safety standards in coordination with fleet maintenance Training & Culture Develop and deliver ongoing safety training programs for drivers, dock workers, and management Champion a company-wide culture of safety accountability and continuous improvement Recognize and reinforce positive safety behaviors through incentive programs Leadership & Administration Build, mentor, and manage a team of regional/location safety managers Manage the safety department's budget, staffing, and resource allocation Prepare and present safety reports, trends, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership Represent the company in industry associations, safety councils, and regulatory bodies Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Safety Management, Occupational Health, Logistics, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience) 8–10+ years of progressive experience in transportation/trucking safety, with at least 5 years in a leadership role overseeing multiple locations Strong knowledge of FMCSA, DOT, OSHA regulations and CSA scoring methodology Proven track record reducing accident rates and improving CSA scores across a multi-site fleet Strong leadership and team management skills, including managing remote/distributed teams Excellent analytical skills; comfortable with safety data, KPI reporting, and risk modeling Strong communication skills for engaging drivers, executives, regulators, and external partners Experience with DOT audits, litigation support, and insurance claims processes Proficiency with fleet management/ELD/safety software systems Certifications (Preferred) CDS (Certified Director of Safety), CDL knowledge, OSHA 30, or similar safety certifications Travel Requirements Frequent travel required to visit all company terminals/locations (typically 25–50%) #J-18808-Ljbffr The Everest Search Group