As we approach the 2018 IPWEA Australasian Fleet Conference, I was reflecting on last year's conference and the key messages it delivered for delegates.

Back in May 2017 I wrote of several traits that the conference identified as being important in today’s fleet manager. They include:

Being systematic – having good processes and applying them methodically and diligently. We must have systematic processes to manage and meet compliance requirements. This is top of mind now with new COR laws coming into place mid-year, but it is equally applicable in WHS, environmental management and so on.  

Being focused – defining, understanding and communicating common objectives with our customers, end users, staff and other colleagues.

Being collaborative – working as a business partner to deliver necessary outcomes. Fleet Management is not a discipline that can be conducted in isolation. It never has been, but today’s complex business environment makes collaboration even more critical. We need to work as enablers and partners with our customers, suppliers and management team.

Using technology – Fleet practitioners must use technology strategically, in ways that support defined objectives. It’s not news that technological advancement is everywhere. The important message is that the technology is there to support and enable performance in our businesses context and must deliver business benefits.

On the 19–21 March, IPWEA will be holding the Australasian Fleet Conference on the Gold Coast. The conference program will address a diverse range of subjects such as: the future of the industry, managing fleet costs, information management, communications systems, preventative maintenance and Chain of Responsibility compliance. Internationally renowned fleet expert Paul Lauria from Mercury Associates in the US will present on what he describes as a 'perfect storm' facing fleet practitioners.

The conference includes a number of presentations on the planning and delivery of the Commonwealth Games and what that means to fleet operators and concludes with a field trip to the City of Gold Coast Fleet Depot to see how they are meeting the Commonwealth Games challenge. With a great range of exhibitors and presenters this is an event not to be missed. Register now!

Robert Wilson
Manager IPWEA FLEET