Meet Nikki Wheeler our Fleet HR Consultant

 Over the years, I have seen first hand how quickly a people issue can turn into a business risk if it is not handled properly. Performance concerns, sickness absence, grievances, disciplinaries, outdated contracts, they all have the potential to escalate if there is no clear structure in place.

 That is why I am genuinely delighted to introduce Nikki Wheeler, our trusted HR Consultant, part of our wider Transport Consultancy Service provided by our partner Steve Hale,  who are now offering Fleet HR Consultancy services to our Fleetmaxx customers.

Nikki brings over 30 years of experience, a straightforward approach, and the kind of honest advice that businesses truly need. I sat down with her for a friendly chat so you can get to know the person behind the policies and understand why HR support is no longer a luxury for fleet businesses; it is a necessity.

 Let us dive in.

Getting to know Nikki our Fleet HR Consultant

“I started out in HR with the Co op at their Head Office in Fratton, Portsmouth, in an admin role. I then became a PA working for Managing Directors. After a year or so, I realised HR was where I truly wanted to be.

I taught myself by reading the old Croner HR manual page by page. Yes, that long ago. I worked my way up into HR Manager roles while completing a postgraduate degree at Portsmouth University to become fully qualified.

In 2012, I set up on my own as an HR Consultant. So many companies cannot justify a full time HR Manager but desperately need support when things get difficult. I genuinely enjoy giving honest advice, whether it is what someone wants to hear or not. Most of the time it is not. But they need to know exactly where they stand.

I have stayed in HR because I love it. You meet so many different people and no two situations are ever the same.”

Why fleet and transport HR?

“The variety. No two days are the same and you never quite know what challenge is coming next.

Fleet and transport is mostly male dominated, and I enjoy that environment. Drivers I have met over the years are generally lovely characters. Down to earth, cheeky, hardworking and genuinely good people. Everyone is different, and that is part of the challenge.

Helping managers turn situations around wherever practicably possible gives me real job satisfaction.”

“Doing a good job that results in the best outcome. I enjoy all aspects of my role, but knowing I have helped a business avoid a bigger problem is incredibly satisfying.”

“Straightforward. Simple. Honest.

There is no need to complicate things.”

“Mostly cycling. I used to compete in time trials, circuit and road racing. I also run, do Pilates, weights and even hula hoop. I enjoy reading autobiographies too. I am currently reading Fiona Phillips’ Remember When and previously read Matthew Perry’s Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.”

Why HR matters now more than ever

“There are major changes coming with the Employment Rights Act 2025 taking effect in stages across 2026 and 2027. It is difficult for businesses to stay on top of it all, especially when operations always come first.

HR often drops down the priority list, but the risk of getting it wrong has never been higher.”

“Performance management. Sickness absence. Grievances. Disciplinaries. Outdated contracts and policies.

The biggest downfall is often a lack of documentation. When there is no clear paper trail, it becomes much harder to defend a decision.”

“It is what I call an earthy environment. Drivers often say what they think without considering consequences. What they see as banter can easily cross a line. Half the time, they do not even realise they have said something inappropriate.

That is where clear boundaries and policies really matter.”

The risks of getting it wrong

“Litigation. It is far too easy to get it wrong.

Employees will contact ACAS and before you know it, an ET1 form arrives and you are facing a tribunal.

Clear policies, documented processes and consistent boundaries are essential. A solid paper trail is invaluable.”

“That HR is the bad person. The grim reaper image springs to mind.

HR does good things too. We protect businesses and we support people.”

“They are mistaken. The internet gives employees huge access to information. Even in a family feeling business, situations can quickly change.

It is sad to say, but employees will take advantage if they feel they can. Being small does not protect you from risk.”

“They are fast paced and busy. They need quick, practical solutions so they can focus on operations.

At the heart of every fleet business are its people. Helping protect that and resolve issues is incredibly rewarding.”

One step to protect your business

“Contact us before something escalates.

So many times I am called when it is already too late. I always think, if only you had contacted me sooner.

We can audit what is already in place, assess how robust it is and recommend what is needed. Early action prevents bigger problems later.”

Rachel Peasron, Key Account Manager and Advanced FORS Practitioner