MARK O’Connell, fleet manager Motor World

How many vehicles are you responsible for and how long have you been in fleet?

I am in charge of 50 cars and seven commercial vehicles. I took on responsibility for the fleet five years ago.

What has been your best career move so far?

Leaving the last company. My current role covers property and facilities, of which fleet management is a part.

What advice would you give someone joining the industry?

Be practical when dealing with your ‘clients’. A company car should be an enjoyable experience and it is down to fleet teams to achieve this for their drivers.

When was the last time you laughed at work?

I laugh every day. No day is the same and there is always an amusing story doing the rounds. Today is about the ‘battered rat lying dead in the stock room’ at one of our branches.

Are there any perks to being a fleet manager?

Being able to test drive any car – although I’ve not driven the commercial director’s Q7 yet.