Two Minutes With… Chris Bate

Describe your remit as Head of Fleet Maintenance

I hold both strategic and operational responsibility for ensuring the entire fleet remains fully compliant, roadworthy, and effectively maintained throughout the asset lifecycle. In addition to overseeing planned maintenance, my team manages all roadside breakdowns and defect reporting, ensuring swift response and minimal vehicle downtime.

What other responsibilities fall to you in your role?

I am also responsible for handling all complaints received by the business, whether internal or external, ensuring they are investigated thoroughly and resolved to a high standard. Alongside this, I oversee the Recharge Team, who identify and recover costs that fall outside the normal fair wear and tear. My team additionally manages the processing and actioning of all Penalty Charge Notices received by Asset Alliance Group (AAG), ensuring timely resolution.

What do you enjoy most about working for AAG?

It’s the combination of people, culture, and purpose. This is a business where teamwork truly matters, and where everyone is committed to delivering a high‑quality service that keeps our customers operational and confident in their fleets. I also enjoy the variety and challenge that comes with overseeing the team. No two days are the same, and there’s satisfaction in knowing the work we do directly impacts customer uptime, safety, and operational performance.

What’s the best thing about your team?

The best thing about my team is the mindset and attitude they bring to every single day. We work in a fast‑paced environment where breakdowns, customer demands, and unexpected technical issues can appear at any moment, yet the team stays calm, focused, and solution‑driven.

Can you offer an example of the positive company culture at AAG and supportive management?

This year marks my tenth with AAG, and during that time I’ve progressed from Supervisor to Manager and now to Head of Fleet Maintenance. Throughout my entire journey, the company has always demonstrated a positive culture. Senior management consistently supports personal development, encourages problem‑solving, and promotes day‑to‑day wellbeing. The leadership team fosters open communication and is always approachable when guidance, clarity, or support is required. Their ongoing trust and commitment have played a key part in my development and progression within the business.

Describe yourself in three words

Loyal, passionate, dependable.

What has been your biggest personal achievement in your role?

Playing a key role in the development and growth of the Fleet Team. When I first joined, the department consisted of five people. Today, it has grown to a team of 38, and being part of that transformation has been a major learning experience. Throughout this journey, I’ve helped build and shape the structure, processes, and culture that underpin the team’s success. We introduced clear procedures, improved workflows, and implemented consistent standards that not only enhanced customer satisfaction but also ensured workload was balanced effectively. Seeing the department evolve into a more efficient, customer‑focused and professionally organised function has been incredibly rewarding.

Who is your role model or hero outside of work, and why?

My role model outside of work is David Goggins [former Navy SEAL]. I admire him because of his relentless mindset, incredible resilience, and his belief in pushing past perceived limits. His story shows that with discipline, accountability, and mental toughness, you can overcome almost any challenge. He talks openly about hardship, failure, and personal responsibility, and I find that hugely motivating. His attitude reminds me that growth comes from stepping outside my comfort zone, staying committed, and consistently raising my own standards.

Describe your perfect day off, what do you like to do?

My perfect day off would start with an early morning climb in the mountains, taking in the fresh air and enjoying the views. After that, I’d head straight to the beach for an afternoon spent in the sea. Ideally, finishing the day off with a BBQ and a Corona whilst watching the sunset with my family and friends.

Asset Alliance Group
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