South Africa: Service Manager / Workshop Manager (Multi Franchise Dealer) posted by First Degree Recruitment

A well established, multi-franchise vehicle dealership based in Mpumalanga, representing multiple OEM brands. The dealership prides itself on service quality, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. As part of its ongoing growth, it is seeking a highly capable Service Manager to lead the service department(s) and contribute to continued success.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the Service / Workshop Departments across one or more franchises: planning, execution, throughput, and profitability.

• Manage financial performance: budget control, cost of labour, parts, overtime, warranty costs.

• Drive KPI achievement (e.g. labour efficiency, turnaround times, parts sales, utilisation).

• Lead and develop a team: workshop supervisors, technicians, service advisors, support staff.

• Maintain high levels of customer satisfaction and retention. Monitor and respond to customer feedback / complaints.

• Ensure OEM standards and warranty requirements are met.

• Oversee workshop scheduling, capacity planning, work in progress (WIP) control.

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.

• Maintain operational controls: job costing, invoicing accuracy, inventory control.

• Implement continuous improvement (process optimization, cost savings, efficiency gains).

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years experience managing a service/workshop department in a vehicle dealership environment. Experience across multiple franchises is a strong advantage.

• Technical trade qualification desirable.

• Strong leadership, people management, and communication skills.

• Solid financial acumen (budgeting, cost management).

• Proficiency in analyzing metrics / KPIs and using that data to drive results.

• Valid drivers license.

• Clear criminal record.

• Matric / Grade 12 or relevant tertiary education.

• Trade Test advantageous.

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary + performance related incentives.

• Company vehicle (for work purposes) / travel allowance if applicable.

• Opportunities for growth / development.

• Benefits such as medical aid, pension / retirement contributions (to be negotiated).

• Supportive working environment with clear processes and standards.