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Head of Fleet Operations - UK

Wayve - London, United Kingdom - In-office - posted 2026-10-05

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Wayve is building an AI platform for autonomous driving using embodied intelligence and real-world learning. As Head of Fleet Operations (UK), you will own end-to-end translation of customer-focused on-road testing strategy into executable tactical plans, running UK Fleet Operations as a General Manager would run a business unit. You will be accountable for safe, efficient, and high-performing on-road operations across London and the wider UK. Your team operates in a highly collaborative environment, working closely with Systems & Enablement (Fleet Servicing and Maintenance, Field Engineering, Operational Safety, Training, Systems & Insights, and Quality Assurance), as well as Software, Hardware, and Product teams. Day-to-day responsibilities include: - Leading deployment of all UK on-road testing, coordinating Shift Leads to keep operators running across two shifts spanning 06:30–23:30, seven days a week - Managing and allocating work across a diverse team including operational Shift Leads, ensuring clear roles, accountability, and high performance - Working closely with supporting teams to maintain seamless operations - Continuously adjusting operational plans as customer needs, technology, and strategic priorities evolve - Acting as the primary escalation point for incident management and safety-critical decisions Key projects include owning end-to-end deployment of on-road ADAS testing strategy in the UK, converting strategic milestones into detailed tactical plans, optimizing resource allocation to balance fleet availability with team schedules, driving continuous improvement in testing procedures and safety protocols, and partnering with other Heads of Geo (US, UK, DE, JP) to align on global operating standards. Wayve operates a hybrid working model with main hubs in London, Sunnyvale, Yokohama, Herzliya, Vancouver, and Leonberg. The company is not a mature, fully-structured place—much of how they work is still being written, and you'll help write it. REQUIREMENTS: - Proven operational management experience, ideally in automotive testing, tech, or a fast-moving, safety-critical field - Ability to turn high-level strategy into practical, executable operating plans - Excellent people leadership skills, including experience managing diverse and/or shift-based teams, and a mixed workforce of contractors and full-time employees - Track record in resource planning and allocation across both fleet and personnel - Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience working across SW, HW, Product, and global Fleet Ops leadership - Comfort with ambiguity and a fast-changing environment, including on-call responsibility for incident management - Based in or willing to relocate to London, and can be in-person most of the time - 5+ years managing large teams and/or an advanced degree in management or equivalent DESIRABLE: - Familiarity with ADAS technology and on-road testing requirements - Experience working with staffing agencies or managing a blended contractor/FTE workforce

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