Fleet decision-makers are divided over the amount of support they receive from senior directors, with half saying that the fleet operation is given due consideration in the business while the remainder feel it is often overlooked.

 

Fifty per cent of fleet managers who responded to the Fleet News poll said that they were given enough support from senior directors when it comes to managing the fleet and making changes.

There are stark contrasts between the management styles in companies, with Roslyn Berry, car fleet administrator at Scope (Australia) saying: “The senior directors often have conflicting interests that may affect their desire to make hard decisions.”

However, Hannaford’s fleet manager, Leigh Stiff, has a much different story to tell.

He said: “I am extremely lucky that my finance director used to look after our fleet.

"Consequently, I don’t have to explain to him the importance of the fleet running well.

“He is very supportive, understanding and encouraging. It really helps having someone like him to bounce ideas off and discuss situations.”

Another anonymous respondent said: “My directors are very hands-on and I can go to them at any time with my suggestions.”

Another added: “I have full support from my senior managers.

"We work closely together and particular attention is paid to the grey fleet.”

Meanwhile, separate Fleet News research (see p32 of this week's print issue) has indicated that senior managers/directors are switching on to the importance of fleet and its role within the business – the amount of directors who have agreed to give up their ‘gas-guzzling’ company cars for greener models has double.