A number of firms have attempted to eliminate their entire fleet department in favor of outsourcing. There are sound reasons why these companies inevitably reinstall a fleet manager.
The old cliché of “the more things change, the more they remain the same” doesn’t fit anymore. The birth was of ingenuity and necessity. Today, it’s efficiency, economics, and increasingly high-tech.
Your test score depends heavily on whether you have set and implemented multi-faceted policies and strategies to reduce fuel costs. Today, it calls for a critical approach, ranging from vehicle selection to modifying driver behavior.
Your key corporate responsibility is your competency to view, analyze, evaluate, and report on industry forces that affect the fleet operation.
My August AF editorial on the perplexing plight of “newbies” caused a stir in the industry. The varied responses present a positive outlook for help.
Will you be Chicken Little (“The sky is falling, the sky is falling”) or the clarion to management so you can prepare for the revolutionary change ahead?
There has been a transition to turning to the fleet management companies (FMCs), and OEMs for direction, counseling, and technical and systems advice. New (and even the more experienced) managers in the company fleet function have new challenges and opportunities.
Too many fleet managers entering the industry fall into the “purchasing” and “administrative” trap with their time management. If you dedicate yourself to learning remarketing skills, your savings to the bottom line will bring you fame.
There is a striking disparity among the nation’s keepers of fleets. A study of the demographics and personal profiles provides interesting answers.
Sure, you’re going to get safer, cleaner-running, higher-tech, sleeker looking vehicles with better mpg. But, at what cost? And, will it be in your CFO’s budget?
OEMs and FMCs stress safety factors. Media and associations offer best practices on a regular basis. The question is: Are fleet managers listening?
With consumer confidence low, political bickering at a high, eroding 401(k) plans, massive national debt, and protesters in the streets, “fleet” remains a very bright segment. Here are some year-end reflections.
With so many other corporate departments interested in a company’s overall welfare, you have an obligation to prioritize the prudent care of your drivers. If ignored, you are vulnerable.
There have always been divergent opinions on the actual role of “fleet” vs. “retail” among automakers and the industry. Here are some new observations of facts that may corrode some of the myths.
No one would suggest we ignore the current egregious fuel prices. However, to mimic my personal mantra for the last 50 years, resale values continue to identify the vehicle’s most costly item.