As AfMA enters a new chapter, we proudly acknowledge and thank our exiting Board members for their outstanding service, commitment and leadership. Each has contributed meaningfully to AfMA’s growth and to the advancement of the fleet industry across Australasia. Their dedication, wisdom and generosity of time have strengthened our association and left a legacy we deeply value.
President – Lee Sauerwald (Uniting Communities)
Lee was AfMA’s eleventh President serving for 5 years, another 5 years as Vice President and 1 year as general board member. Lee has been a driving force behind AfMA’s strategic direction and industry influence. His leadership, guidance and passion for sustainability have shaped national conversations on fleet decarbonisation, safety and operational excellence. Lee’s service has been instrumental in positioning AfMA as a trusted and respected industry leader.
Vice President – Vince White (QFleet)
Vince was AfMA’s twelfth President serving for 2 years plus 1 year as Vice President and 2 years as an general board member. Across five years of service, Vince has contributed strong governance, public sector insight and a balanced leadership style that has supported AfMA’s growth and stability whilst orchestrating the blending of the National Public Sector Fleet Management Conference with AfMA’s Australasian Fleet Education and Leadership Summit saving the industry hundreds of thousands of dollars. His experience and thoughtful approach have been highly valued.
Treasurer – Brendan Stooke (Retired Member)
Brendan’s 20 years as Treasurer and 2 years as general board member represent an extraordinary commitment. Having served with 7 Presidents, Brendan’s financial stewardship, consistency and strategic oversight have provided AfMA with a solid and enduring foundation. His contribution is one of the most significant in AfMA’s history.
General Board Member – Pat Ahern (Mackay Regional Council)
Pat has dedicated 13 years to AfMA with 4 years as Vice President and 9 years as a general board member. His practical understanding of fleet operations, government experience and balanced perspective have helped shape many key initiatives and strengthen AfMA’s engagement with regional organisations.
General Board Member – Sharon O’Neill (Sydney Water)
Sharon has served AfMA for eight years as a general board member, bringing a wealth of industry experience and a strong commitment to safety, environmental responsibility and continuous improvement. Her contributions to committees and industry programs have left a meaningful mark.
General Board Member – Philip Browne (Autorola Australia)
With eight years of service as a general board member, Philip has brought valuable digital remarketing and automotive insight to AfMA’s strategic discussions. His industry perspective and deep sector knowledge have supported AfMA’s evolution during a period of significant change.
General Board Member – Chris Dhu (Private Energy Partners)
Since joining the Board in 2022, Chris has contributed a balanced and deeply informed view of asset management and fleet operations. Chris’s broad expertise, coupled with his risk-based approach has been an impactful addition to the Board.
General Board Member – Drew Schnehage (Insure Connect Services)
Whilst only joining AfMA’s board in 2025, Drew made a genuine and lasting impact. Her leadership energy, industry insight and forward-thinking approach added a refreshing momentum to AfMA’s strategic discussions. Drew continues to play an important role in chairing AfMA’s Women in Fleet Management committee, bringing passion and advocacy that helps elevate its purpose and visibility across the sector.
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A Legacy That Will Endure
Under this Board’s leadership, AfMA has continued to grow its impact, expand its services and deliver programs that strengthen the capability of fleet professionals throughout Australasia. Significant initiatives delivered or expanded during their tenure include:
- Women in Fleet Management Committee
- Industry Mentoring Program
- Industry Development Program
- Personal Development Series Library
- Personal Development Webinars
- Online Driver Safety Courses
- Online Fleet Practitioner Courses
- Small Fleet Employer and Driver Handbooks
- Accredited Individual Salesperson Program
- Whole of Life Cost Calculator
- Weekly Fleet News
- Professional Development Forums (in person and podcast)
- Online Fleet Management Guide
- Swinburne Diploma of Leadership & Management and Scholarship Program
These initiatives have become core components of AfMA’s value to members and reflect the Board’s commitment to education, innovation and industry leadership.
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With Deep Appreciation
To our outgoing Board members – thank you. Thank you for your leadership.
Thank you for your time. Thank you for the heart and dedication you have invested in AfMA.
Your commitment has strengthened our association, supported thousands of fleet professionals and helped elevate the standards of our entire industry. Your legacy will continue to shape AfMA’s future, and we are sincerely grateful for your contribution.
We look forward to your continued connection with the AfMA community!
This year’s Board transition reflects a mix of personal and professional changes. Some members retired from the industry, some chose not to stand again due to work commitments and evolving responsibilities, while others were not returned through the election process.
Meet our new board next Friday, STAY TUNED!
