LeasePlan has called for fleet-operating companies to involve their fleet managers in the decision-making process around insurance as new research indicates their expertise is being overlooked.

Almost a third (31%) of fleet managers are frustrated that other departments get a bigger say in the insurance decision-making process than them

The study by the leasing and fleet management giant revealed that almost a third (31%) of fleet managers are frustrated that other departments get a bigger say in the insurance decision-making process than them.

Yet, only a third (32%) of actual insurance decision-makers think they’re well-equipped enough, and know enough about the fleet and drivers, to get the most out of their fleet insurance. This highlights a serious knowledge gap between those involved in a complex decision-making process.

The analysis, carried out among 500 fleet decision-makers and 250 commercial insurance decision-makers, also highlighted that over a third (36%) of fleet managers think the insurance decision-making process is too time-consuming, while one in five (20%) think that the claims process is difficult.

Steven Kirwan, director of operations at LeasePlan Insurance, said it was important to involve fleet managers in insurance decision-making as they’re the most likely to have a clear and detailed understanding of fleet operations and know exactly which elements of an insurance policy could benefit their drivers most.

He continued: “The fleet insurance process clearly has its challenges, from first assessing your options all the way through to making claims. And the more challenging the process, the more important it is to have the right decision-makers involved. In the case of fleet insurance, fleet managers should be your go-to. They’re the people most likely to have a clear and detailed understanding of fleet operations and know exactly which elements of an insurance policy could benefit their drivers most.

“To make the process even simpler and more efficient, decision-makers should also work with a specialist fleet insurer who understands their operational needs.”

The study also revealed a further key issue – one in 10 (11%) fleet managers have no decision-making influence over fleet spend or budget.

Kirwan added that the need for ESG goals and electrification meant it was natural to see more employees and stakeholders involved in the fleet finance decision-making process.

But he stressed: “Fleet managers shouldn’t be de-prioritised in the decision-making process, though. In fact, their expertise should be more valued than ever.”

Earlier this month, the Association of Fleet Professionals said fleet managers were becoming increasingly involved in board-level decisions and high-level strategic thinking, due to changing corporate priorities. The association added that an increasing focus on cost control and environmental measures was elevating the fleet manager role within many organisations.

More information on the findings of the LeasePlan survey can be found here.