Branch Manager - Ipswich

Job Title: Branch Manager
Sector: Automotive Services
Contract: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full-time / On-site

About the Role:

We are delighted to be supporting a well-established organisation within the automotive services industry with the appointment of a Branch Manager.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced manager to take responsibility for the successful running of a branch, overseeing daily operations, driving financial performance and ensuring the delivery of excellent customer service.

Reporting to the Regional Operations Director, you will play a key role in managing and developing the branch team, maintaining high operational standards and ensuring all activities are carried out in line with company policies and procedures.

You will have responsibility for four key areas: financial performance, customer service, employee management and health and safety, ensuring the branch operates efficiently, profitably and to the highest standards.

You will:

• Take overall responsibility for the day-to-day management and operational performance of the branch, ensuring key targets and KPIs are achieved.

• Manage branch budgets and financial performance, controlling costs and maximising resources to maintain profitability.

• Deliver excellent customer service by understanding customer requirements, resolving complaints and maintaining high service standards.

• Build and maintain positive customer relationships, ensuring feedback is acted upon and customer satisfaction targets are achieved.

• Lead, motivate and develop the branch team, creating a positive and productive working environment.

• Take ownership of recruitment, onboarding and induction activities to ensure the branch has a skilled and motivated team.

• Monitor employee performance, identify training needs and support individuals in achieving their full potential.

• Allocate workloads effectively and manage working hours and call-out rotas to ensure customer requirements are met.

• Hold regular branch meetings and communicate company updates, policies and procedures to employees.

• Work closely with the Regional Operations Director to review branch performance and ensure activities align with wider business objectives.

• Champion health and safety standards, ensuring employees follow company policies and safe working practices.

• Ensure compliance with company ISO standards and report any quality or safety concerns appropriately.

• Oversee branch stock, consumables and inventory, ensuring accurate stock records and effective ordering processes.

• Manage petty cash, customer cash transactions and branch administration, ensuring all records and documentation are accurate.

• Ensure company vehicles are maintained, serviced and presented to a professional standard, with employees adhering to the Vehicle and Driving Policy.

• Work collaboratively with internal support teams, including HR, Finance, Fleet, IT, Customer Relations and Training, to support the smooth running of the branch.

• Identify opportunities to improve processes, operational efficiency and overall branch performance.

• Remain flexible to support wider business requirements, including assisting with the management of other branches when required.

About You:

• Proven experience in a management or supervisory role, ideally within an automotive, vehicle maintenance, engineering or service-led environment.

• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate, manage and develop a team.

• Commercially aware, with experience managing budgets, controlling costs and delivering against financial targets.

• A strong customer service background, with the confidence to handle complaints and resolve issues professionally.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and oversee multiple areas of branch operations.

• Experience monitoring performance against KPIs and identifying opportunities for improvement.

• A good understanding of health and safety requirements and the importance of maintaining a safe working environment.

• Experience managing employee performance, addressing concerns and supporting training and development.

• Confident communicating with employees, customers, senior management and internal stakeholders.

• A proactive approach to problem-solving, with the ability to make effective decisions in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong administrative and IT skills, with the ability to use company systems and software packages effectively.

• A flexible and adaptable approach, with a willingness to work beyond normal hours when required and support other branches as business needs dictate.

Benefits

• Salary: £35,000 per annum
• Quarterly bonus potential - for recognition of your good work.
• The opportunity for personal development and growth with the support of a dedicated training team and mentors - for your growth.
• 33 days holiday per year including statutory bank holidays - for your rest and recouperation.
• Salary sacrifice pension scheme - for your future.
• Company sickness pay - for your peace of mind.
• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - for life's challenges.
• Access to employee discount platform - for your personal time.