The South African Association for Fleet Professionals (AFP) hosted their inaugural colloquium powered by MasterDrive today. It is the first of many enlightening and forward-thinking events to be hosted by the Association specifically designed to transform fleet management into a profession of excellence and aspiration.
President of the AFP, Eugene Herbert, says more than 400 registrations to the virtual colloquium is testament to the need and support of the AFP. “This event marks an important milestone in our mission to address the demand for professional development and industry standards.
“It is a first-of-its-kind in the country that aligns with our commitment to transform fleet management into a sought-after career path through knowledge sharing, professional development, and the creation of a unified voice for the industry. The first event was a great success, and we highly anticipate coming events.”
The AFP is structured in a way that there is an option for all fleet managers- individual as well as corporate. “There are essentially three different tiers of membership from which to choose, each available in bronze, silver, and gold packages.
“Whether you are individual desiring to advance your career, an organisation with multiple fleet managers or a support organisation working closely with fleet managers, the AFP member structure is designed to suit those needs. We are proud to open membership applications today and take the first step.”
The first event hosted by the AFP focused on a critical topic within the industry: developing strategic insights for the future of fleet professionals. “The keynote address by the Founder and Managing Director of GridCars, Winstone Jordaan, addressed a topic at the top of many agendas: how EV development will transform fleet operations, particularly as the demand for sustainability grows.
“Winstone was a veritable source of information that fleet managers will find instrumental in preparation for the transformation that lies ahead. Whether in the initial planning phase or well into your plans for incorporating new energy, one can draw advice and inspiration from the information shared,” says Herbert.
This was followed by an enlightening panel discussion with a particular focus on building resilient fleet operations. Panellists discussed:
- Assessing future trends in road freight to prepare for now, by Gavin Kelly, Chief Executive Officer at Road Freight Association (RFA)
- The creation of sustainable safety cultures within fleet operations by Bobby Shemmans, Occupational Health and Safety Consultant from RNS Occupational Health and Safety
- Technology implementation success stories by Jonathan Mphake, a Supply Chain and Fleet Management Expert
- How fleet operators can leverage insurance data to build more resilient operations by Mpho Chokwe, Santam Underwriting Head: Retail Motor Fleet Solutions
- Vehicle procurement strategies for modern fleet operations by Graham Eagle, Auto Industry Consultant – Former OEM (Importer) VP and CEO
- Practical approaches to innovation in established fleet operations by Rob Sansom, National Outbound Logistics Manager at AfriSam
A special thank you is extended to the organisations contributing towards the prizes, adding something special to the event. AfriSam, Avis, AWARE.org, Body Stress Release, Eqstra, Old Mutual Insure, Optix and RNS Occupational Health and Safety – we truly appreciate the support.
The inaugural AFP Colloquium has exceeded our expectations. “We highly anticipate the events to come and sincerely value the overwhelming support received during our first event,” says Herbert.
