Smaller SMEs may see human resources delegated to the finance director. Add fleet management to the mix and this could become an organisational challenge.
“National management companies are typically deemed the only progression for internal fleet managers who feel under strain” comments Alan Locke, MD of AYCEN Group, who care for fleets, legal, accountancy and other professional firms throughout the Greater Manchester region.
“Local help can often prove just as effect, though, with independent garages increasingly offering fleet services, from warranties and accident repairs to servicing and recalls”.
In 2014, RAC revealed that 80% of SMEs surveyed spend less than six hours per week caring for their vehicles, due to an array of time demands”.
Alan added: “Our Bosch-trained technicians use state of the art equipment to keep our clients’ vehicles on the road.
The Importance of Fleet Vehicles
A recent Lex Autolease report found that:
- company vehicles were important in adding value to helping to generate revenue for an organisation
- company vehicles can also strengthen a firm’s chance of recruiting the best candidates.
- almost half of fleet managers have seen company cars become more important to employees over the last two years.
- Sixty two percent of the 633 employees polled classed a company car as either “quite” or “very important” when assessing their next career move.
According to Health and Safety at Work rules, employers are obligated to do everything “reasonably practicable” to keep employees out of harm’s way when they’re on the road.
Alan Locke concluded: “Entrusting fleet management to a dedicated team on the doorstep frees up HR’s time to focus on other important areas, from ever-changing employment legislation to employee engagement, maximising retention and profitability as a result”.
“It often also means fewer unplanned repairs, higher vehicle resale values and reduced fuel bills from the increased efficiency achieved, all whilst fulfilling your CSR commitments at the same time”.