In 2010, Skanska introduced a grey fleet policy to reinforce its responsibilities to employees using their own cars for business purposes.

The size of the grey fleet has grown due to the popularity of the allowance scheme introduced a few years ago.

The allowance is based on the cost of providing a company car and enables employees to make their own choice on the type and age of car, rather than sticking to the brands offered on the car fleet.

However, under the terms of the grey fleet policy, they are now subject to similar controls as the company vehicles when it comes to environmental concerns.  Both the car and grey fleets are capped at 130g/km.

“It’s been well received – the environment is part of the culture of this business,” Madoui says.

That culture has also seen Skanska take steps to minimise the impact of its company and grey fleet cars by putting the emphasis on mobility solutions.

"Vehicle share and video conferencing facilities have helped to reduce annual mileage and enabled Skanska to reduce its fleet size. Pooling options are also being explored.

“We question whether they really do need to travel,” Madoui says. “Our strategy is to change the reliance on the company car.

"We have introduced a cycle to work scheme and offered a travel allowance instead of a car allowance in areas like London where people don’t need to drive.

“This has also impacted on the grey fleet by moving some from a car allowance into a travel allowance,” she adds.

Telematics helps with work scheduling and utilisation on the van fleet, reducing wasted mileage and driving hours by ensuring the right vehicle gets to the right job quickly.

Use of the Isotrak system has also addressed driver behaviour issues, resulting in an average improvement in fuel efficiency of 17% by identifying the worst performers.

Madoui has been involved in the fleet sector since leaving education. Like many of her peers, she got first her first taste on a small company car fleet while in an administrative role.

After a career break when she went to live in Australia, Madoui returned to fleet in the construction industry with McNicholas, working in its plant and transport operation.

The business was acquired by Skanska in 2007.

“You either hate or enjoy working in fleet – there’s no middle ground,” she says. “I enjoy the diversity; every day is different. It’s about looking after people and giving them the best product, but also to reducing the risk impact on the general public.”