OCU Group is 'keeping the wheels turning and the fleet compliant'

Fleet decision-makers are rarely underworked. Most would admit they have plenty to keep them occupied during the week simply managing the drivers of their cars, vans and/or trucks. But, in utilities, the role frequently comes with the added complexity of plant.

At OCU Group, a family-owned contractor based in Stockport, this means assuming responsibility for everything from cars to £3 million directional drilling rigs, and from light commercial vehicles (LCVs) to 80-tonne low loaders.

Stephen Jackson (pictured), OCU Group head of plant and transport, is the man tasked with ensuring the business runs smoothly and efficiently, by keeping the vehicles on the road and the plant functional.

This objective is, he says, his “number one priority”, supported by a team which includes a plant and transport manager, a fleet manager plus assistant, hire desk manager, process manager, assistant plant and transport manager, breakdown manager, directional drilling specialist and six regional managers who act as the “eyes and ears” of his department within the operational centres.

“My priority is to keep the wheels turning and to keep the fleet compliant,” he says.

“If every team member is in a van and working safely, I’m meeting expectations. Everything else is icing on the cake.”

He is a firm believer in the benefits of accreditation and is a member of both Logistics UK’s Van Excellence and FORS (Fleet Operation Recognition Scheme), where the company has attained silver membership.