The Women in Fleet profile series introduces fleet managers to some of the most influential women in fleet. Every month, we get to know another positive force in the fleet industry. 

This month, we spoke with Erica Fine, senior director, strategic sales for Derive Systems. 

Getting into Fleet

Fine has been involved in the fleet industry for the past 10 years, working with Derive Systems for the past three years. 

She previously worked as VP of Business Development at Donlen for five years and director, Strategic Sales at Wheels for two years. Before entering the fleet industry, she worked with GE Capital in various banking and finance roles for nine years. 

“I was recruited from a merchant banking role to sell cost-saving fleet management solutions at the C-level to large fleet customers. It was my first external sales role, and I’m so thrilled the recruiters found me on LinkedIn and introduced me to fleet!” she said.

At Derive, Fine is responsible for new business development and key account management for a targeted set of clients. 

“My job is helping make fleets safer, more fuel-efficient, and more environmentally sustainable,” Fine explained. 

She understands both strategic and tactical challenges fleet leaders face and has worked across a fleet vehicle’s entire lifecycle to find optimization solutions that drive real results. 

Fine also has a deep commitment to the commercial fleet industry, holding local and national leadership roles within crucial industry organizations NAFA and AFLA.

“Fleet is one of those industries where the longer you invest your time, the more you can contribute. I was very proud to represent Derive during the last two AFLA conferences where our customers won key awards such as Fleet Executive of the Year, Fleet Manager of the Year, and Fleet Visionaries. I’m proud to be a supplier to these forward-thinking leaders and consider it my top success to have introduced a few of them to Derive,” Fine said.

The pace of change is one thing that motivates Fine to strive for success continually. 

“The fleet industry is ever-changing, and for me, that’s a fascinating place to be. There are countless opportunities to be at the forefront of automotive technologies like Derive's Active Vehicle Management that impact our entire world, including the future for my small children. I’m also personally motivated by helping others and making a tangible positive impact on my clients’ safety, fuel efficiency, and sustainability of their vehicle fleet is very fulfilling,” she said.

Advice from Fine? Get involved. “I encourage fleet managers to reach out to other women in the industry to network and get involved in the Women in Fleet Management mentorship program. We are a strong tribe and have your back!” Fine said.

Get to Know Me

Experience is only part of our story and what someone likes to read, watch, and listen to can help paint a fuller picture of their personality. Here are some of Fine’s favorites: 

• Book: “I personally enjoy non-fiction books. I recommend The Tipping Point and The Challenger Sale,” she said.

• Movie: “The Matrix is my favorite movie,” Fine said.

• Song: “Ready to Fall by my brother, Chris Wallace,” she said. 

• You May Not Know: “I am a certified dance fitness instructor for cardio dance routines set to pop and hip-hop music!” Fine concluded.