Description

Responsible for the reputation, efficiency, and profitability of dealership service, collision repair, and parts operations. Sets policies to ensure the overall dealership business plan is accomplished. Oversees each department manager and assists in helping them reach their goals. Interfaces with dealership upper management, other department heads, and factory representatives.

Personal Characteristics and Skills

Must enjoy working with people, working with other managers, and be comfortable with leadership responsibilities. Must be able to make decisions and respond quickly to unexpected situations. Must have excellent communication skills, both written and oral. Must be a good leader, mediator, and team player. Must have self-confidence, self-motivation, integrity, and good work ethics.

Job Outlook

As new car dealerships grow in size and locations, coordination between all the repair departments becomes extremely important. Through new car sales cycles, fixed operations (repair departments) provide steady income to keep the business profitable. A well-run dealership will succeed and grow, requiring good service directors.

Pre-Employment Education and Experience

Math, accounting, and reading skills are necessary to understand and manage all the operations necessary in fixed operations. A college education in business management and extensive dealership experience is required. 

Earnings

Starting salaries may be in the $60,000 – 75,000 range, depending on business size and market conditions. Commission bonuses are generally paid for reaching departments’ goals.

Career Path

An experienced service manager is an ideal candidate for having extensive technical knowledge, factory relations, and supervisory experience. This level of management can lead to higher dealership management positions or owning a repair business or car dealership.

Continuing Education

Advanced business education is available through local or on-line colleges and public seminars. Specific automotive management education is available through the Automotive Management Institute (AMI) and can result in the Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation.

 

 

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