FAN: How did you first get into fleet management?
Peter: I was born into it. As a kid all I ever wanted to be was a Motor Mechanic. With the support of my dear old dad I achieved that dream and to this day I still love cars. In the early 90’s I stepped off the workshop floor into a Maintenance Controllers job, the rest is history.
FAN: Describe the type of fleet you and your team manage?
Peter: A very diverse one. We look after over 500 + assets ranging from motor bikes to street sweepers to chain saws.
FAN: Do you think there are different challenges for a council fleet compared to a corporate fleet?
Peter: Absolutely, very few fleets are as diverse as a council one and the process is understandably a lot more rigorous when you are dealing with public funds.
FAN: What is it about fleet that you enjoy?
Peter: How long is a piece of string, but that look on someone’s face when you give them a new car, or working through technical specifications and delivering fit for purpose trucks and plant is a good start.
FAN: What has been your biggest challenge in fleet to date?
Peter: In a past life I was responsible for the build management of a multi-million dollar contract for the delivery of fuel tankers. To say the clients requirements were at times a challenge is an understatement, but when you are dealing with Dangerous Goods you don’t get a second chance.
FAN: Is there a strong fleet community network in Victoria?
Peter: Absolutely, although like anything, you always seem to see the same people supporting the industry. Networking is as much a tool as a Scan tool. It’s also important to talk to your industry colleagues, I still keep in touch with people I worked with over 20 years ago.
FAN: What are the top three challenges for a fleet manager today?
Peter: 1) Dealing with the needs of the business versus the wishes of drivers; 2) Driver safety, it goes without saying that safety plays a big part in the decisions made about the cars we purchase, but in 2018 when we are faced with no local manufacturing, and as the spec level of hi-tech devices fitted to new cars increases, safety will almost dictate what we buy; 3) Big data and what to do with it. As more and more fleets are installed with GPS we need to ensure we are using the information to improve how the fleet is utilised and optimised.
FAN: What is your favourite car in your fleet?
Peter: Mine, I lend it to staff all the time but pity help them if they hurt my baby.
FAN: What is your dream car?
Peter: A 1933 Ford five window Coup (hot rod version of course).
FAN: Do fuel prices influence the decisions you make on vehicle selection?
Peter: Yes, but not as much as buying the most fuel efficient vehicle in class as possible and green guide rating.
