Workshop Manager in Cobham

Workshop Manager
Location: Shepton Mallet
About Us: Welcome to a company where innovation meets passion! We are dedicated to building a diverse and talented workforce that drives our success. Our team thrives on collaboration, creativity, and making a positive impact. We believe in fostering a dynamic work environment where every member can grow and excel. If you're looking for a place where your ideas are valued and your career can flourish, you've found it!
Job Description: We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Workshop Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of our busy workshop at the Shepton Mallet depot.
The workshop comprises 3 bays, 2 pits, a dedicated store room and workshop facilities, supported by a team of 7 staff, including apprentices. You will take responsibility for ensuring the workshop operates safely, efficiently and effectively, supporting the maintenance and servicing of our Group Fleet, including HGVs, vans and trailers.
This is a hands-on leadership role with responsibility for workshop planning, team development, apprentice mentoring, stock and parts control, compliance and quality standards. You will also play an important part in future-proofing the workshop, developing the skills and capability needed to meet the changing requirements of the fleet and wider business.
Key Responsibilities:
Workshop Operations & Planning
Manage daily workshop scheduling, including servicing, inspections and repairs across the Group Fleet.
Lead and coordinate the 7-person workshop team, ensuring the 3 bays and 2 pits are used effectively.
Prioritise planned and reactive work to minimise vehicle downtime and maintain high standards.
Team Development & Apprentices
Lead, coach and mentor apprentices, supporting their technical and practical development.
Create and manage training plans for apprentices and team members, identifying skills gaps and development opportunities.
Build a culture of continuous learning, knowledge sharing and progression within the workshop.
Future-Proofing the Workshop
Identify the future skills, equipment, tooling and training required to support the changing fleet.
Develop succession plans and build a strong apprentice and skills pipeline.
Drive improvements in workshop efficiency, technology, processes and capability.
Health, Safety & Quality
Maintain a strong safety culture and ensure workshop policies and procedures are followed.
Maintain high standards of workmanship, compliance and quality control.
Carry out regular checks to ensure equipment, bays, pits and working areas remain safe and effective.
Stock, Parts & Resources
Manage stock and parts control, including ordering, replenishment and the organisation of the store room.
Ensure the team has the right parts, tools and equipment while controlling costs and minimising waste.
Fleet Compliance & Cost Control
Work with the Compliance and Fleet teams to ensure vehicles meet legal and company standards.
Maintain accurate servicing, inspection and compliance records.
Monitor workshop expenditure and identify savings without compromising safety, quality or compliance.
Team Leadership
Lead, motivate and develop the workshop team, creating a positive and productive environment.
Set clear expectations around safety, quality, performance and teamwork.
Build capability across the team through coaching, succession planning and continuous improvement.
Continuously seek ways to improve the workshop environment and team morale .
Required Experience:
Qualifications & Experience
Level 3 qualification in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (or equivalent).
Previous supervisory or team leadership experience in a workshop environment is essential.
Experience managing HGV, van, and trailer maintenance operations.
DVSA ATF lane experience is highly desirable.
Skills & Attributes
Strong organisational and planning skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to challenges.
Able to manage and motivate a team a large workshop team.
High standards of customer service and communication across all levels.
Proficiency in workshop management systems and Microsoft Office applications.
LGV licence is advantageous but not essential.
Why Join Gregory Distribution Ltd?
Competitive Salary : £50,000pa - £55,000pa, depending on experience.
Hours : Monday to Friday 08:00-17:00.
Training : Monthly Courses for a variety of areas.
Benefits : Additional holiday purchasing scheme*, Retail discounts with Hapi*, Retail Trust Wellbeing Support*, and more.
Career Growth : Explore opportunities for professional development within our expanding business.
Company Benefits : Excellent holiday allowance. Life assurance, pension, and sickness scheme*.
Extras : Christmas Savings Club*, Black Circle Tyre Discount*, Free Uniform and paid Volunteer Day.
Wellbeing Support: Benefit from the Retail Trust Wellbeing Support* program.
Team Environment: Be part of a strong culture of teamwork and collaboration.
How to Apply
If you have the drive to be the best and want to be part of a flourishing and ambitious company, apply now!
Please submit your application as soon as possible. Due to high volumes of applications, we reserve the right to close adverts before the closing date once we have received sufficient application
Eligibility : Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK with no restrictions. Proof of Right to Work will be required at the interview stage.
Contact Us : For any queries, please contact our Recruitment Team at . Our team is available Monday to Friday, 08:30hrs - 17:00hrs.
Note to Recruitment Agencies : We prefer to recruit directly but have a Preferred Supplier List for when we need assistance. We'll be in touch if we need you.
*Subject to terms and conditions.