AfMA’s new board has signalled a shift towards greater member participation, clearer professional development pathways and more visible communication about the Association’s direction.
In a statement published following its Strategy Day in September, AfMA outlined three areas for action: constitutional changes to support member participation, expanded training and development, and stronger career pathways and recognition for fleet professionals.
For Fleet Managers, Fleet Coordinators and Procurement Managers, the announcement raises a broader question about the role of an industry association: how much influence should members have over its priorities, and how should its Board demonstrate that it is listening?
Member participation moves onto the agenda
The most significant governance proposal is an update to AfMA’s constitution.
The statement says the changes would give members “greater opportunities to participate in general meetings and contribute to the Association’s direction”.
That wording suggests the Board sees an opportunity to broaden participation in the decisions that shape AfMA’s work. It also puts member involvement on the agenda as a structural issue, with potential changes to the Association’s governing document.
The statement does not which constitutional provisions would change, how consultation would occur or when members would consider the proposals.
It does suggest that members previously had no input. However, the commitment to create greater opportunities sends a clear signal that the Board wants member participation to become a more prominent part of how the Association operates.
A more visible approach to governance
The publication of the Strategy Day outcomes is itself significant.
By sharing the areas agreed for action, identifying work still underway and explaining the next steps, the Board has given members and the wider industry a clearer view of its priorities.
That visibility creates a basis for accountability. Members can assess whether the constitutional proposals emerge, whether development opportunities expand and whether the eventual implementation plan reflects their needs.
The announcement can therefore be read as a move towards more open communication about Board activity. It does not, on its own, establish how previous Boards communicated or how much information members received.
The practical test will be whether this becomes a regular approach, with opportunities for feedback and updates on progress.
Building recognition for fleet professionals
Alongside governance, the Board has committed to expanding opportunities for members to develop knowledge and practical skills, and to respond to emerging industry challenges.
It also plans to establish clearer development pathways and increase recognition of fleet professionals’ knowledge, experience and contribution.
These priorities matter because fleet responsibilities extend across asset selection, utilisation, maintenance, safety, sustainability and financial performance. Professional development needs to support both day-to-day decisions and progression into roles with greater organisational responsibility.
AfMA has yet to outline the programs or pathways it intends to introduce. Their value will depend on how closely they reflect the needs of members working across different fleet sizes, sectors and levels of experience.
Leadership continuity as priorities change
The Board also confirmed Mace Hartley as Executive Director for a further five years, providing leadership continuity while the strategic work progresses.
The Board is led by President Eden Shirley, with Thomas Brayley as Vice President and Paul Sor as Treasurer. General Board Members are Nina Abbey, Darren Gore, Anna Martinis, Richard Schuster and Satinder Sahota.
AfMA says the Board and team will now assess the wider ideas raised, confirm strategic priorities and develop a practical implementation plan.
Its stated commitment to “keeping members at the centre of AfMA’s work” provides a useful benchmark. The next phase will show how that commitment translates into member influence, communication and practical support for the fleet profession.
