Christopher Smith lists resources to assist new and experienced fleet managers
Fleet News
Throughout the year, Fleet News runs several industry-leading seminars, conferences and events, where fleet managers have the chance to learn from industry experts, network with others in the industry, and grow their knowledge base. One of the largest conferences, Fleet News Congress, focuses on cutting cost while increasing safety, and takes place each Autumn at the Heritage Motor Centre in Gaydon, Warwickshire.
Cost: Roundtables and Company Car in Action are free for fleet decision-makers to attend. A conference ticket is from £99+VAT.
For more information: fleetnews.co.uk/events
CIPS
The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) offers a Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations as a starting point for those purchasing and procuring goods on a regular basis. The CIPS works with more than 90 UK study centres, and exams are sat at the CIPS regional centres, spread across the country. New members can take advantage of a student subscription rate and online training materials are available.
Membership: from £158
Exams: from £72
For more information: cips.org
ACFO
ACFO operates as the member association for fleet managers There are eight regions which hold regular networking and briefing events.
Members can also attend national seminars throughout the year. Previous topics have included managing parking fines, and the introduction and uptake of electric vehicles.
Cost: membership £190+VAT
For more information: acfo.org
FIAG
The Fleet Industry Advisory Group (FIAG) was launched in 2014 by several fleet industry stalwarts, including former Fleet Support Group chairman Geoffrey Bray, in addition to managers of extensive fleets. The group runs workshops, produces handbooks and guides on fleet-specific topics and pairs new members with those experienced in the industry acting as mentors.
Membership: £350/year
For more information: fiag.co.uk
BVRLA
The BVRLA offer a Fair Wear and tear inspection course, designed to train fleet managers on standards accepted by leasing companies upon defleet.
Cost: £175+vat
For more information: bvrla.co.uk
Brake
Road safety charity Brake runs the Brake Professional programme, supporting companies that manage those driving for work. Members get discounted or free access to Fleet Safety Forum events, a range of online tools and resources, and access to road risk webinars.
Cost: from £99+VAT (£50 for public sector or non-profit)
For more information: brakepro.org
Jaama
Fleet software provider Jaama runs its ‘Fleet Management Essentials’ seminars throughout the year, primarily at its head office in Tamworth, West Midlands.
The one-day seminars are tailored to those new to fleet, or those wanting a refresher, and cover policies, legislation and cost savings.
Cost: £295+ VAT
For more information: jaama.com
ICFM
The Institute of Car Fleet Management (ICFM) offers fleet management qualifications and certificates, with the aim of advancing the profession of fleet management.
For those new to the world of fleet, ICFM recommends the Introductory Certificate in Car Fleet Management. Learning is available online or on CD, as well as in fast-track module training days.
Cost: from £115+VAT for introductory programme
For more information: icfm.com
Institute of Travel and Meetings
The Institute of Travel and Meetings (ITM) covers the broader spectrum of travel planning, and may be worth considering for a fleet manager who also looks after business mobility.
Membership includes a free place at ITM educational workshops,
as well as access to regional events, delegate forums and online
‘how to’ toolkits.
Cost: £249+VAT per year
For more information: itm.org.uk
Fleet Audits
Fleet Audits offers three levels of packaged training courses, from basic fleet training to an advanced level. The basic training takes the form of a two-day residential course, including accommodation and all training materials, specifically aimed at those with less than 18 months’ fleet experience, and those assuming new responsibility for fleet.
The next levels of training are four and 10 days respectively, and offer a more in-depth insight to fleet management.
Cost: from £845+VAT.
For more information: fleet-audits.com
FTA
The Freight Transport Association (FTA) runs the Van Excellence scheme, offering accreditation and training to those in the light commercial vehicle sector. The scheme is supported by a comprehensive best practice guide, providing operators with information to help them meet the standards of the Van Excellence code. The FTA holds Van Excellence conferences and seminars, with speakers from across the industry.
Conferences: from £200+VAT
Van Excellence Audit: £580+VAT
For more information: fta.co.uk
Clare Elsy - 29/10/2014 11:29
this is a really valuable report detailing the courses available to fleet managers as when you research this on Google it is amazing what the serach throws up and it is hard to know what is the most efficient and effective to be involved in and will have a better impact on fleet managers roles.