BVRLA launches Professional Fleet Consultant Development Programme
2008-07-01
New training will enable leasing executives to demonstrate a greater understanding of the fleet manager’s role and needs
The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has launched a new vocational training course for leasing and fleet management providers.
Developed in conjunction with the Institute of Car Fleet Management (ICFM), the four-day Professional Fleet Consultant Development Programme is targeted at sales and business development executives within BVRLA member companies. It will equip participants with the skills and knowledge to align their sales role more closely with the demands and responsibilities of the client fleet manager.
“This course is not about teaching our members how to sell,” said BVRLA director-general John Lewis.
“We are inviting them to step into the shoes of their client and learn about the pressures and issues they face. Our members develop many of their sales staff from within, and told us that this extra perspective would be invaluable.
“Training and career development are an important part of any strategy for retaining key staff.”
Roddy Graham, chairman of the ICFM commented: “As a result of our collaboration with the BVRLA, for the first time ever, the industry will have a vocational training course that combines the competence of the professional fleet manager with the technical fleet acquisition know-how of a leasing consultant,”
Competence will be measured through written assessments, and, in order to make the training attractive to career-minded professionals, it will be externally accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management. Executives from ALD Automotive, Arval, Leaseplan, LloydsTSB Automotive, Marshall Leasing and Masterlease have already signed up for the first course, which starts in September.
The training is also fully endorsed by the Association of Car Fleet Operators and its chairman, Julie Jenner said: “We welcome any initiative that helps promote a better service for fleet operators.”
Course details
The programme will be delivered in two two-day modules around six to eight weeks apart.
The first module will cover the principles of fleet management, with a focus on understanding the role and responsibilities of a fleet manager; the principles of asset and risk management; and the influence of a client’s stake holders, company culture and market segmentation. It will also look at wider concerns influencing fleet choice, including the environment.
The second module will explore the delivery of fleet solutions. It will study the various budgetary and taxation considerations; key acquisition and disposal options and supplier management; and the relevant legal and health and safety obligations.
BVRLA members interested in obtaining more information about the Professional Fleet Consultant Development Programme should contact Clare Wilsdon on 01494 545703 or clare@bvrla.co.uk
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