Senior Workshop Manager – Transport/Logistics

SUMMARY:
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Senior Workshop Manager to lead and manage the full maintenance function of a large long-distance fleet consisting of trucks and trailers.

POSITION INFO:

Senior Workshop Manager – Transport/Logistics

Location: East Rand. Gauteng

Remuneration

Market-related and highly competitive, aligned with qualifications and experience. Performance incentives may apply.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Senior Workshop Manager to lead and manage the full maintenance function of a large long-distance fleet consisting of trucks and trailers.

The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring maximum fleet availability, optimal cost control, regulatory compliance, and high operational standards across all workshop activities. This is a senior leadership role requiring strong technical expertise, commercial acumen, and proven people management capability within the transport industry.

Key Responsibilities

Fleet Maintenance & Technical Oversight

• Oversee preventative, scheduled, and breakdown maintenance of long-haul trucks and trailers.
• Ensure maximum fleet uptime and reliability for cross-border and long-distance operations.
• Implement and monitor maintenance schedules aligned with OEM specifications.
• Manage roadside breakdown response and recovery processes.
• Oversee warranty claims and supplier performance.

Operational Management

• Lead daily workshop operations including planning, job allocation, and workflow management.
• Monitor KPIs such as fleet availability, turnaround time, cost per km, and parts usage.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce downtime and maintenance costs.
• Ensure effective stock control and management of spares inventory.

Financial & Cost Control

• Develop and manage workshop budgets.
• Control maintenance expenditure, labour efficiency, and parts procurement.
• Negotiate with suppliers and service providers to secure competitive pricing.
• Analyse maintenance trends and report on cost-saving opportunities.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with road traffic legislation, safety standards, and company policies.
• Oversee vehicle licensing, inspections, and roadworthiness requirements.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and audit readiness.
• Enforce health and safety standards within the workshop environment.

Leadership & People Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop workshop foremen, technicians, and support staff.
• Manage performance, discipline, and skills development.
• Foster a high-performance, accountable, and safety-driven culture.
• Plan workforce capacity to align with operational demands.

Minimum Requirements

• Trade Test (Diesel Mechanic) – essential
• Minimum 10–15 years’ experience in fleet maintenance
• At least 5 years in a senior workshop management role
• Proven experience managing large fleets (150+ vehicles preferred)
• Strong knowledge of long-distance and cross-border fleet operations
• Computer literacy (Fleet management systems, MS Office)
• Valid driver’s licence (Code 14 advantageous)

Key Competencies

• Strategic and operational leadership
• Strong financial and analytical capability
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail
• Ability to perform under pressure in a high-demand transport environment
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills