The City of Beverly Hills, Calif., promoted Craig Crowder, previously fleet operations supervisor, to fleet manager, effective Aug. 12. A City program allowed Crowder two years to transition into the fleet manager role, providing management training. He replaces Rene Biadoma, who retired July 12.

Crowder started working at the City fleet in 1993 as equipment mechanic II. He was promoted to fleet supervisor in 1999. He serves as treasurer of the Municipal Equipment Maintenance Association (MEMA). 

As fleet manager, Crowder oversees a fleet of 360 units and 12 employees in fleet and central stores. There are two fleet shops and two warehouse facilities. The City of Beverly Hills fleet has been certified an ASE Blue Seal shop for 10 years, with 100% of its technicians certified.

Currently, the Beverly Hills fleet is completing construction of a new state-of-the-art central warehouse facility. Crowder said it is set to open in November.

The City hopes to promote from within to replace Crowder’s previous position of fleet operations supervisor. There are currently four employees being considered.

By Thi Dao