FLEET managers have been told to obtain professionally-recognised qualifications to maximise their career potential or face losing their jobs. As the RAC launched the second phase of its fleet manager training Scholarship Awards Scheme at the Institute of Car Fleet Management's annual members' conference, fleet managers were told to 'grasp the opportunity and move with the times - to not only expand but safeguard their own jobs'.

RAC director of fleet and accidents services Penny Hadfield urged fleet managers to harness professional training and skills development to expand and maximise the potential of their roles in business as corporate responsibility for the UK's multi-billion pound fleet function shifted from the operational to the strategic. 'Mobility is the key to keeping British business moving. Enlightened fleet managers can turn that key by embracing evolving technologies and by shaping their own company's transport and communications policies,' said Hadfield.

'Fleet managers are no longer just controlling cars - they are managing logistics. Their contribution to the smooth running of business is not merely operational - it is strategic. To keep their jobs, fleet managers need to grow their skills and their management competencies in order to grow both their influence and their careers.'

The Awards scheme was launched at last year's ICFM when four fleet managers were selected from a total of 50 registrations for the £50,000 scheme. Now the RAC has invested a further £10,000 into the three-year programme and is offering eight fleet managers places on the 1999-2000 training scheme. Further details may be obtained from the ICFM on 01844-261828.