The Association Of Car Fleet Operators (ACFO), the UK’s premier organisation for fleet decision-makers, has launched a new recruitment drive, which recognises part-time fleet decision-makers in small and medium-sized business and the continuing evolution of car and van management that means an increasing number of people need help with implementing cost-effective best practice policies and procedures.
ACFO membership currently includes many organisations running just a handful of vehicles, although most members are in the 100+ category.The organisation presently has more than 800 members collectively responsible for the efficient and cost-effective operation of over 500,000 vehicles.
In many SMEs, company directors or senior managers who will typically be finance, HR or procurement professionals are invariably responsible for fleet operations.
ACFO membership director Stewart Whyte said: “Some of these people may have an interest in vehicles, but it is unlikely that they have the necessary detailed knowledgeable needed on the full range of fleet issues. Larger fleets with an experienced or even a full-time fleet manager already know how complex it can be to keep operations legally compliant and cost-effective. However, ACFO can fill that knowledge gap thought the willing exchange of data and techniques for good practice.
“In recent years we have been successful in recruiting as members, many businesses where an employee has taken over management responsibility of their employer’s fleet but who have not been given any training or specific objectives for their role. Once the business joins, the fleet manager benefits from that ACFO membership. Now we want to help all fleet decision-makers at SMEs, irrespective of their main job-title.”
ACFO has recently relaunched its website for members to discuss topics and problems with each other and discover and then implement best practice solutions.
Mr Whyte said: “We build our meetings to cater for people with all levels of experience and knowledge of fleet management, and always try to ensure that the less-experienced members have access to the whole range of expertise at these meetings. The new website provides an online version of the spread of good ideas and techniques, to cater for individuals who might not be able to attend all the meetings.”
In addition, workshops are held on key industry issues to ensure members have a firm grasp of the implications. As well as providing an active forum for fleet operators, to discuss and promote best practice in fleet management, ACFO continues to represent the legitimate interests of vehicle fleet operators, vehicle manufacturers, service company suppliers and government departments and agencies.
Mr Whyte said: “Fleet funding and acquisition strategies, in-life vehicle management, tax and safe-driving are all complex topics that without the right expertise could prove troublesome and expensive to the unwary. ACFO helps by spreading best practice expertise.”