By: Katherine Vigneau, CAFM, Owner and Founder, KMVS Fleet + Consulting
I attend a lot of seminars and conferences, both as a speaker and as an attendee. Looking at the agenda, presenters and topics of NAFA’s upcoming International Fleet Academy, I can truly say it is in a class of its own. The Academy, to be held in Tucson, Arizona, October 21-23, is designed for Fleet Managers and vendors alike whether they are new to global fleet management or have been managing fleets in several countries for many years. Its goal is to present and discuss process improvements, measurement of the global cost base, universal policies, better procurement capability, and global fleet management training so that attendees can acquire the specialized skills needed for the expanding and changing fleet environment across every world market.
A brief review of the agenda shows just the right mix of training sessions and networking opportunities. The Academy opens at 1 PM on Monday, October 21st with registration and an informal networking hour and concludes on Wednesday, October 23rd with a networking reception and dinner. Listening to feedback from attendees of their two previous international events, NAFA now offers the option of attending the entire conference or purchasing a Monday/Tuesday or Tuesday/Wednesday package.
The presenters have been carefully selected and are the best in the business. They come from North America, as well as all over Europe and South America; and they are the experts in their field. I am really looking forward to hearing from Ross Durkin, Managing Editor of Fleet World Group and Giovanni Tortorici, President, Italian Association of Managers Buyers and Used Cars. The Fleet Managers who will be sharing their experiences run impressive global operations for organizations such as Merck & Co, Ecolab, Coca Cola and Aramark Services, to name only a few.
What differentiates the Academy from other seminars is the content. The agenda is full of challenging topics that are extremely relevant to today’s operating environment. Some of the many highlights are:
· Aligning 51 Countries and 60 Suppliers: A Case Study in Success
· International Sourcing Strategies That Work
· Your International Car Policy: A Complete Checklist
· Trends and Benefits in the International Insurance Market
Each topic will be presented by an expert with time for discussion, meaning attendees will learn not only from the instructors but also from their peers.
If you work in the global arena you need to join us in Tucson at the Loews Ventana Canyon, October 21‐23, 2013. For more information and to register, please see www.nafafleetacademy.org
