Workshop Operations Manager

SUMMARY:
Our client is seeking an experienced Workshop Operations Manager to take full responsibility for the operational, technical and financial performance of a busy automotive workshop.

POSITION INFO:
Workshop Operations Manager Location: Cato Ridge, KwaZulu-Natal Salary: Negotiable up to R50,000 CTC per month (inclusive of Provident Fund) Lead a High-Performing Automotive Workshop Our client is seeking an experienced Workshop Operations Manager to take full responsibility for the operational, technical and financial performance of a busy automotive workshop. This is an excellent opportunity for a proven workshop leader with strong technical knowledge, exceptional people management skills and a passion for delivering outstanding customer service while ensuring operational efficiency, profitability and compliance with OEM standards. The successful candidate will oversee workshop operations, manage technical teams, drive productivity, optimise work-in-progress (WIP), control costs and ensure the highest standards of workmanship, safety and customer satisfaction. Key Responsibilities Workshop Operations Manage the day-to-day operations of a busy automotive workshop. Plan and control daily Work-in-Progress (WIP) to maximise workshop throughput. Optimise workshop capacity, technician productivity and resource utilisation. Coordinate closely with Service Advisors and the Parts Department to ensure efficient workflow and parts availability. Ensure all servicing and repairs comply with OEM specifications and quality standards. Drive continuous improvement in workshop performance and operational efficiency. Leadership & Team Management Lead, motivate and develop a team of technicians, apprentices and workshop staff. Monitor productivity, attendance and performance. Conduct coaching, performance reviews and development planning. Identify training requirements and promote continuous technical development. Foster a customer-focused, high-performance culture. Customer Service Ensure customers receive regular and accurate progress updates. Resolve customer concerns and technical issues professionally and timeously. Maintain high levels of customer satisfaction through quality workmanship and efficient service delivery. Administration & Compliance Ensure accurate workshop system administration, including job cards, labour hours, fault codes and workshop data. Oversee accurate costing, invoicing and closing of job cards. Ensure Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are consistently followed. Maintain workshop documentation, technical manuals and electronic records. Coordinate outsourced repairs and supplier quotations. Reporting & Performance Management Monitor open job cards and purchase orders. Prepare and submit operational and management reports. Track workshop performance against key operational and financial targets. Analyse workflow and implement corrective actions where required. Financial Management Manage workshop expenditure in line with approved budgets. Monitor workshop profitability and cost recovery. Support management with profit and loss reporting. Ensure accurate warranty administration and recovery billing. Asset, Quality & Safety Management Manage workshop equipment, tools and company assets. Ensure equipment is maintained and fit for purpose. Maintain high housekeeping, health and safety standards. Conduct regular quality inspections to ensure workmanship meets OEM standards. Ensure warranty and recovery processes are correctly administered. Apprentice Development Oversee the workshop apprentice programme. Mentor and develop apprentices in line with company and OEM standards. Minimum Requirements Grade 12 (Matric) Qualified trade tested Diesel Mechanic Minimum 7 years'''''''''''''''' management experience within an automotive workshop environment. Strong knowledge of automotive systems, diagnostics and OEM service standards. Proven experience managing workshop operations, WIP and capacity planning. Experience leading technical teams in a high-volume workshop. Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets and workshop profitability. Excellent leadership, communication and problem-solving abilities. Strong administrative, reporting and computer skills. Key Competencies Workshop Operations Management Automotive Technical Expertise Leadership & Team Development WIP & Capacity Planning Customer Service Excellence Financial & Budget Management Workshop Performance Optimisation Quality Assurance OEM Compliance Health & Safety Compliance Operational Planning Continuous Improvement