Meet the Experts: Ben Van Veenendaal, Business Development Manager
What does your role entail and what excites you about it?
As a Business Development Manager, I support a variety of business and organisations throughout the full fleet management journey, beginning with the initial discussion and continuing through to implementation. The role requires a strong understanding of the customer’s business, their specific and unique fleet requirements, their desired future state, and the strategic insights to help achieve their desired outcome.
What I enjoy most about my role is the process of building a genuine relationship from the ground up. At the start I am learning about not only their organisation, current state, and any possible gaps or paint points, but also, I take a genuine interest in learning more about them as an individual and how I can assist in their day-to-day world also. Over time I develop a clear understanding of how I can add value and assist by implementing bespoke strategies to meet their specific needs. These relationships are built and continue over long periods which allows me to work closely with customers to shape a solution that truly fits their needs. That sense of partnership and progress is what truly motivates me and brings me job fulfilment.
What are some of the challenges that you help solve for clients?
Two challenges appear consistently across most organisations. The first is the weight of administrative tasks involved in running a fleet. Reporting, compliance and day to day coordination can place a significant burden on internal teams and I help customers streamline these processes so they can focus on the core responsibilities of their role.
The second challenge is the level of customer support they receive. Some organisations do not have an internal model for fleet support and others may feel that they are not receiving the service they require or expect to deliver excellence across their fleet. I aim to provide a reliable point of contact and a proactive approach to managing their needs, working closely with our experienced account management team to ensure a seamless transition after implementation. Addressing these key challenges allows customers to move toward broader goals such as reducing cost, managing risk and improving efficiency.
What do you see as some of the opportunities for prospects with Interleasing?
There is a strong opportunity for prospects to partner with Interleasing as we offer a fully comprehensive and well-integrated end-to-end fleet management solution. Although the market is competitive, Interleasing have invested in solutions that cover all aspects of fleet management while maintaining a personalised approach.
Not only do we provide robust technology and online platforms with a comprehensive suite of tailored reporting capabilities, but we also offer a Vehicle Pool Booking System, Vehicle Inspection tools that support vehicle condition monitoring, a market leading Grey Fleet Management System, Driver Training modules, and various Telematics solutions.
Our comprehensive solution allows us to improve operational performance across all areas of the fleet and create a one-stop shop for our customers.
What makes Interleasing different?
Interleasing stands out because of its excellent culture. The organisation has worked extremely hard to create an environment that promotes collaboration and active engagement across all departments whilst being well-supported. This positive culture and environment directly influences the positive experience customers then receive from the Interleasing team. Strong and supportive leadership has shaped a consistent standard across all parts of the business, and it shows in the way our teams collaborate and deliver service excellence.
Alongside culture, we have strong systems, a flexible approach to customer needs, and a willingness to work closely with organisations to ensure the solution is right for them. This combination sets Interleasing apart in a crowded market.
What Interleasing value resonates most with you?
The value that resonates most with me is culture. I believe culture determines the standard of service customers experience and the level of pride employees feel toward not only their work, but their peers and colleagues. I have always prioritised workplaces with strong cultural alignment and Interleasing has exceeded my expectations in that regard. It is a place where people want to contribute and that positive environment makes a significant difference.
What sort of future trends do you think are coming up or continuing?
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important, and I expect that trend to continue. Many organisations are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, but certain fleets have limited options based on their specific fit-for-purpose vehicle requirements. Partnerships that support emissions offsets allows these organisations to still make meaningful progress.
In addition to sustainability, I also expect continued growth in hybrid and electric vehicle adoption. Rising vehicle investment costs and the emergence of new manufacturers offering a plethora of options will further shape how organisations start to plan their fleets. Supporting customers through these changes via vehicle benchmarking, whole of life costings, and specific industry insights across a variety of fit-for-purpose vehicle options will remain a key focus.
What inspires you outside of work?
Outside of work I am motivated by maintaining a strong balance between personal and professional life. I prioritise physical activity such as going to the gym for both the mental and physical benefits, as well as prioritising time with family and friends. Staying grounded outside of work helps me stay focused when I am at work.
What was your first job?
My first job was as a basketball referee which I started when I was 14. Basketball was a significant part of my life and refereeing allowed me to stay involved in the sport while earning enough money to travel and eventually buy my first car when I was 19. Being a referee for over five years taught me responsibility, accountability, and working with others which gave me a great foundation for future work.