Q Fleet makes Innovation Centre move to fuel job drive

An expanding fleet management firm has moved into new offices as it gears up to strengthen its workforce.

Q Fleet has taken space in Hartlepool’s Innovation Centre.

Bosses say the site, managed by Tata Steel subsidiary UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE), will provide necessary space to house more staff and geographical links to maintain its growth.

“We were bursting at the seams in our Billingham offices,” said Mark Batey, who founded the business in 2013.

“We needed more space for the current seven-strong team and so that we can take on more staff early next year.

“One of our clients in the energy sector started out in the Innovation Centre, so I already knew the facilities and support are just what we needed.

“The location is ideal too as our client list is increasing across the UK, as well as in the region.”

Q Fleet operates as an independent agency not linked to any vehicle manufacturer or service, providing support that covers sourcing vehicles, buying and selling, finance and ongoing management.

It also has a more retail-focused arm in the form of a car lease shop.

“We work with clients needing anything from a single vehicle to hundreds,” revealed Mark, who gained an accountancy qualification to add to his company’s expertise as the financial side of fleet management became increasingly complex.

“Demand is growing steadily from businesses that don’t have this expertise in-house through to larger companies who do have a fleet manager but choose to outsource some of the operation very cost-effectively.

“Businesses are becoming more aware of the many implications and legal liabilities involved right up to recognising that directors can be held responsible for corporate manslaughter if a vehicle is involved in a serious accident.

“It’s a challenging area, so they are increasingly looking for the reassurance of independent advice and expertise,” added Mark.

Joan Cook, a member of the UKSE team based at the Innovation Centre, said Q Fleet’s arrival further adds to the site’s reputation.

She added: “We were happy to welcome Mark and his team and look forward to seeing Q Fleet continue to grow.

“They are joining a friendly and supportive business community, with around 50 business tenants operating in many different sectors.”