Geoffrey Bray, who founded Fleet Support Group (FSG) in 1987 and oversaw its expansion to become the UK’s largest privately-owned fleet management company, has announced his retirement from the recently-rebranded ARI Fleet UK business.

Bray (70), who as chairman saw the fleet grow to 55,000 cars, vans and HGVs, said: “Developing the business gave me enormous pleasure and excitement, but there comes a time when succession moves to the fore.”

He built the business with his wife, Ina, who retired last summer.

He continued: “With the help and advice of many people - including employees who have worked for the company for many years - the organisation grew and offered first-class service.

“It was recognised as doing so by both clients and the world’s largest privately-owned fleet management company, ARI, which acquired the business in 2011. 

“Reducing fleet costs, improving service and simplifying administration for clients were our clear objectives from day one, and that is why so many prestigious companies have been clients for many years.”

Bray led the development of the company’s multi award-winning occupational road risk management programme RiskMaster, on which more than 20,000 drivers are currently enrolled.

He concluded: “My journey from a kitchen table concept to an industry-recognised quality vehicle and driver management company fills me with enormous pride.

“I shall be forever grateful to the loyal team that helped me build the company and to the many clients who recognised my passion and commitment to do things better.”

Recently-appointed managing director Keith Allen said that Bray was instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition to new management over the past year.

“Geoffrey’s strong relationships with our customers, his industry knowledge, and his enthusiastic promotion of ARI programmes and technology have helped us further strengthen existing relationships and opened the doors for new opportunities,” said Allen. 

ARI President Carl Ortell thanked Mr Bray for helping to introduce ARI to the UK, noting that his passion for the UK fleet market and insight into UK customer needs have been tremendous assets.

He said: “We thank him both for his support over the past year and his offer to contribute, as needed, in the future.”

Find out Bray’s views on the future of fleet management in this week’s Fleet News.

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