General Manager

We are looking for an experienced General Manager to join our busy bodyshop based in Berkshire.

The job in a nutshell

• Salary: £60k to £70K
• Monday to Friday 45 hours per week
• Berkshire
• Type of employment: Permanent
• General manager

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and driven General Manager to lead the daily operations of a busy Bodyshop. This role is critical to ensuring profitability, efficiency, quality, and exceptional customer service. You will oversee teams, processes, compliance, workflow, financial performance, and the overall operational standards of the Bodyshop.

The ideal candidate is highly organised, commercially minded, and experienced in bodyshop or automotive repair operations. You will be responsible for sustaining profitability, managing people and processes, and maintaining the highest levels of safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

• Formulate and implement policies and procedures to maximise sales in labour, parts, paint, materials, and other revenue areas.
• Ensure the Bodyshop operates efficiently, meeting and exceeding departmental targets.
• Plan workload and allocate tasks based on staff skills and business needs.
• Maintain quality control on all repairs and ensure correct use of tools, equipment, and materials.
• Conduct regular staff meetings, performance reviews, and identify training needs.

Financial Management

• Maintain agreed profit margins and return on investment.
• Manage budgets, monitor daily operating controls, and analyse KPIs.
• Control financial transactions, costs, stock levels, assets, and resources.
• Review profit-and-loss performance and plan capacity accordingly.
• Build and maintain relationships with insurance companies, credit accounts, suppliers, and customers.

Customer Satisfaction

• Ensure customers are greeted professionally and receive exceptional service.
• Manage complaints sensitively, ensuring fast and effective resolutions.
• Maintain high CSI scores and continually improve service quality.

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure compliance with all company policies, manufacturer standards, and industry guidelines.
• Maintain health & safety, environmental, COSHH, EPA, and internal procedures.
• Ensure correct recycling practices, data protection compliance, and adherence to Disability & Equality legislation.
• Oversee quality management processes, audits, and PAS 125 requirements.

Quality, Health & Safety & Environmental Leadership (QMR / HSO)

• Act as a Safety Representative providing ideas, action, advice, and information.
• Participate in site inspections, accident investigations, and support H&S compliance.
• Establish, implement, and maintain an effective Quality Management System.
• Produce reports, conduct audits, monitor improvements, and support staff on quality matters.

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience managing a Bodyshop or automotive repair operation.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• Commercial awareness with the ability to analyse KPIs and financial performance.
• In-depth understanding of HSE, COSHH, EPA regulations, and PAS125 compliance.
• Ability to build strong relationships with customers, insurers, suppliers, and team members.
• Excellent problem-solving ability and a hands-on, proactive approach.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Career development and training opportunities
• Supportive working environment
• Opportunity to lead a high-performing bodyshop team

NOTE: Applications will only be accepted from qualified General Managers with proven experience. Please do not apply if you don’t have relevant experience – no exceptions.