Workshop Controller

With around 11 years of experience within a Volkswagen main dealer, this candidate has developed an excellent understanding of dealership aftersales operations, progressing from Service Advisor through to Senior Service Advisor and Workshop Controller. Their background combines hands-on workshop management with extensive front-of-house experience, making them well suited to a busy dealership looking for someone who understands both sides of the service department.

In their most recent position, they were responsible for the daily running of a Volkswagen workshop, managing 12 Technicians and four Apprentices while also supervising and supporting four Service Advisors. This involved controlling workshop loading, allocating jobs, monitoring progress and ensuring work was completed in line with customer commitments.

Having spent several years working in service reception before moving into workshop management, they understand the importance of communication between Technicians, Service Advisors and customers. They are confident dealing with unexpected workshop issues, adjusting workloads when required and ensuring the front-of-house team has accurate information regarding repair progress and vehicle completion times.

Their experience also includes supporting the development of Apprentice Technicians, helping colleagues with day-to-day workshop challenges and maintaining an organised working environment. They take a practical approach to management, ensuring jobs are allocated appropriately while keeping the team focused on productivity and customer satisfaction.

Earlier in their career, they gained considerable experience as a Senior Service Advisor, managing customer bookings, handling service enquiries, supporting colleagues and helping coordinate workshop requirements. This has given them a particularly good understanding of the complete customer journey, from initial booking through to vehicle collection.

Their long-term commitment to a single manufacturer demonstrates a stable career history, during which they have taken on increasing responsibility and developed strong relationships across different dealership departments.

They are now looking for a new Workshop Controller opportunity where they can use their experience to support workshop performance, develop Technicians and Apprentices and contribute to the continued success of a professional automotive aftersales department.

Key Experience & Strengths

Around 11 years of Volkswagen main dealer experience
Workshop Controller and workshop management experience
Senior Service Advisor background
Management of 12 Technicians and four Apprentices
Supervision and support of four Service Advisors
Workshop loading, planning and workflow management
Technician job allocation and daily workload control
Apprentice training, coaching and development
Service reception and front-of-house operations
Customer service and relationship management
Workshop and service department communication
Customer satisfaction and retention
Problem-solving and operational support
Service department processes and administration
Team leadership and staff development
Microsoft Excel and Salesforce experience

What They’re Looking For

Workshop Controller position within an established main dealer or automotive dealership group.

Ideally looking for a long-term opportunity where they can take responsibility for workshop operations, manage and develop a team of Technicians and work closely with the Service Manager to maintain strong departmental performance.

Salary Expectations

£40,000+ basic salary

Availability

4 weeks’ notice

Location

Looking for roles within up to 45 minutes of Bolton.

This candidate offers a strong combination of workshop leadership, service reception experience and extensive manufacturer knowledge. Their progression from Service Advisor to Workshop Controller means they understand the challenges faced by both Technicians and front-of-house staff, allowing them to manage workflow effectively while maintaining customer service standards.

For dealerships recruiting a Workshop Controller in Bolton, Manchester or the surrounding North West area, they bring experience managing a sizeable technical team, supporting apprentice development and ensuring a busy workshop operates efficiently.

Their background makes them particularly suitable for automotive businesses seeking an experienced Workshop Controller who can manage daily operations confidently, support departmental productivity and help maintain a positive working environment within the motor trade.