POORLY-trained fleet managers are costing British businesses thousands of pounds and putting the safety of drivers at risk, research undertaken by Goodwood Fleet Management has shown.

It suggests thousands of fleet managers do not have the expertise to 'effectively, efficiently and safely' manage fleets under their control.

The problem of poorly-trained fleet managers has been well-documented with the launch of the Fleet News Get Trained campaign, which has attracted fleets that operate more than 14,000 vehicles worth an estimated £210 million.

The campaign highlights the need for improved training among Britain's fleet decision-makers. They register their training needs with us and we pass them to providers in the industry.

Goodwood estimates that poor fleet management is costing businesses anything from a few thousand pounds to several hundred thousand pounds a year.

Managing director Tony Donnelly said: 'Leaving this complex responsibility in the hands of inexperienced individuals is nothing short of a ticking timebomb.'

He said despite the importance to a business of a company car operation, fleet management positions are often given to junior members of staff with little or no training given.

Donnelly added that the role of fleet manager was a full-time one. Also a major problem in the industry is that 'everyone thinks they are a car expert'.

He said: 'Choosing a fleet and its ongoing management is highly strategic and involves considering a multitude of complicated factors. A system of audits, checks and record keeping is essential to match the right car to the right driver and proactively manage costs and risk.

'It is in the interest of every business that has a fleet to ensure the person responsible for running it is fully trained. Not to do so is corporate suicide.'