A NEW era of professionalism in the contract hire and leasing industry began this week following the launch of a ground-breaking new training programme. Simon Kerr, chairman of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, and Professor John Stancer, pro-vice chancellor of Nottingham Trent University formally signed an agreement on a new six-stage industry professional development programme at the University on Friday.

The BVRLA course, run in conjunction with the university and under the directorship of leading motor industry academic Peter Cooke, head of the centre for automotive industries management at Nottingham Business School, part of the university, is expected to start in the new year. About 200 people have expressed an interest in the course so far, which has six levels of study and runs from six months up to three years.

At the launch Colin Tourick, chairman of the BVRLA's leasing and fleet management training committee and managing director of Manchester-based The Associates, said: 'The course enables employees to study in the context of their industry, but take away portable qualifications, which will create effective staff and attract quality new employees to the industry.'