Fleet isn’t a commodity; it’s a strategic asset.” 

What does that actually mean? 

Matt Dyer, CEO of Merchants Fleet, will explore that question in the closing keynote at the 2026 Fleet Forward Conference during a fireside chat with Automotive Fleet’s Chris Brown titled, “Think Differently: What Fleet Leadership Looks Like Now.” 

The discussion will examine how fleet has evolved into a more strategic and mission-critical business function, connecting vehicle data, operations, technology, capital strategy, and client experience to broader business outcomes. 

Dyer will discuss the new mindset and leadership skills required as fleet professionals take on greater influence within their organizations. 

“Fleet is strategic work, but it is still often viewed as just a cost center within organizations and across the industry,” said Dyer. “I’m looking forward to discussing how the role of fleet leadership is evolving, what businesses should expect from their fleet partners, and where the profession is headed from here.” 

“The fleet manager’s role has changed, and most job descriptions haven’t caught up,” Brown said. “We’re delighted to have Matt lead this in-depth conversation about closing that gap. It’s one fleet professionals need to be having right now.” 

About Fleet Forward Conference 

For the first time, the Fleet Forward Conference will take place on the East Coast. FFC2026 convenes Oct. 20–22 at the Gaylord National Harbor in Maryland, nine miles south of Washington, D.C. 

The conference brings together fleet, mobility, and technology leaders for three days of education, hands-on experiences, and networking focused on the future of fleet operations. This year’s theme is “Leading Fleets Through Transformation.”  

The educational program is organized around six pillars: 

• Mobility & Autonomy: exploring the shift to electric and autonomous fleets 
• Data Integration, AI & Predictive Intelligence: unlocking real-time insights from connected platforms 
• Global Strategy: offering a worldwide view of fleet challenges and innovation 
• Fleet Safety & Risk: focused on protecting people and assets 
• Infrastructure & Energy: addressing scalable electrification solutions 
• People, Talent & Culture: equipping fleets to build and support high-performing teams 

Call for Papers is Open 

FFC announces its 2026 Call for Papers. Industry experts, fleet leaders, and solution providers are invited to submit session proposals and speaker nominations. Submissions are due before July 15, 2026. 

For sponsorship and exhibit inquiries, contact robert.brown@bobit.com or joni.owens@bobit.com.