Michael Ahart, VP of transportation for Dean Foods, was named the 2016 Fleet Executive of the Year at the Automotive Fleet & Leasing Association's (AFLA) annual conference on Sept. 20 in San Diego, Calif.

Ahart was selected from field of four finalists that also included Paul Youngpeter, CAFM, managing director of fleet and corporate services for Rollins, Inc.; Robin Lewis, vice president of procurement, fleet and asset management for Ferrellgas; and Julie Pedelini, director of North America fleet, travel and meetings for Johnson & Johnson.

Ahart is an 11-year fleet veteran, and manages 11,000 Class 7-8 trucks/tractors/trailers and 1,500 passenger vehicles. He is responsible for ensuring his fleet’s logistics operation for the delivery of its products, including the acquisition and maintenance of the company’s vehicles. Ahart has been with Dean Foods since 2000, and he was promoted to his current position in 2006.

The award recognizes exceptional leadership by managers who hold the title of vice president or higher and/or have other responsibilities beyond fleet. 

He has implemented several fleet initiatives with Dean Foods, including the standardization of vehicle specifications, outsourcing titling and registration, improving vehicle maintenance, and prioritizing employee safety.

The award is sponsored exclusively by the CEI Group, with the honoree selected by a panel of judges from the fleet industry.