The evolution of the modern fleet manager

A fleet manager is responsible for a company’s group of vehicles, overseeing every aspect from vehicle acquisition onwards to ensure an efficient fleet operation that complies with the government laws and regulations.

Over the years, fleet management has evolved (more on that below) to require more tailored approaches. Each fleet has unique requirements, goals, and challenges to navigate.

A fleet manager’s growth in business management

The more ‘traditional’ tasks of fleet management (minimising vehicle downtime and managing overall fleet costs) remain at the core of operations. Fleets are facing a lot of pressure with several challenges on the horizon that impact maintenance rates, such as:

• National Insurance changes in April 2025 which will see an increase in labour costs.
• Further increase of the cost of vehicle parts needed for servicing, maintenance andrepairs.

Did you know that the average dealer workshop booking lead time in 2024 was approximately 14 days? That’s potentially two weeks without your owned van while waiting for parts to arrive impacting your business and finances in multiple ways.

Today’s fleet managers are expected to know about more than just vehicles. The role now includes broader, more strategic responsibilities to align fleet operations with overarching business goals, focusing on cost control, sustainability, and efficiency.

Fleet management now requires a balance of skills in financial administration, logistics, and people leadership. It’s becoming commonplace for the modern fleet manager’s daily focus to include specialist areas such as regulatory compliance, data study (use of AI tools to analyse fleet data), and carbon reduction strategies whilst tackling emerging technologies like telematics and EV integration.

The strategic financial planning role of the modern fleet manager

Fleet managers play a key role in leveraging telematics, predictive maintenance tools, and real-time data analytics to optimise fuel usage, reduce downtime, and extend vehicle lifespans - all of which can present significant cost-saving opportunities.

You could say the modern fleet manager is also a financial strategist tasked with balancing daily operational efficiency with sustainable, long-term budget control.

Understanding your fleet’s Drive to Zero

Electric vehicles bring more considerations for fleet managers such as understanding charging requirements and capacity, vehicle ranges, optimal charging times, SMR of EVs, and software specialism.

Fleet managers are expected to align with national initiatives such as Net Zero goals, the Zero Emissions Vehicle mandate, and clean air/low-emission zones often requiring significant adjustments in vehicle procurement and routing to meet regulatory standards and avoid fines and penalties.

 

As we head towards the 2030 deadline, the importance of transitioning your fleet to EVs, sourcing on-site charge point access, and integrating emission-reduction technologies will only grow. But why wait for 2030? Get a head start on your competition and plan ahead, today.

How fleet manager’s drive ESG goals

With the growing importance of Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) targets within the industry, fleet managers have taken on the added responsibility of ensuring their business ESG goals are met.

This involves evaluating suppliers and logistics partners for ESG alignment through sustainable sourcing and optimised routing and improving employee welfare with a focus on vehicle safety, driver training, and fostering a culture of care and accountability.

Additionally, decarbonisation is a significant focus, requiring the transition to low-emission or electric vehicles, addition of micromobility solutions, emissions tracking, and the implementation of carbon reduction strategies.

Download our FREE Carbon Reduction guide.

How Northgate takes away your fleet management burden

We provide expert fleet management services to keep your business running smoothly and efficiently, covering everything from vehicle hire and maintenance to compliance and driver safety.

Fleet managers these days are required to wear a lot of hats; the stress and burden can be a lot to bear. We can take that away. Our flexible, account-managed solutions alleviate administrative burdens, helping you reduce costs, improve safety, and free up time so you can focus on your core business.

Discover how Northgate's Fleet Management can support your fleet needs today.