VMU Manager / HGV Workshop Manager
Location
Didcot, Oxfordshire
Salary
£45,000 basic per annum, plus overtime opportunities
Hours
Monday to Friday, 07:00-16:30, 45 hours per week. Flexibility required.
Job Type
Full-time, permanent
Right to Work
Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
Job Summary
Lead the team, take ownership of workshop performance and help keep commercial vehicle fleets on the road. ISQ Recruitment is recruiting an experienced VMU Manager for a well-established commercial vehicle business in Didcot.
This opportunity would suit a confident workshop leader who combines technical knowledge with strong people management and a practical approach to delivering reliable fleet maintenance.
What's on Offer
- 23 days' annual leave, plus a day off for your birthday.
- Overtime opportunities.
- Pension scheme and life assurance.
- Manufacturer training and career development opportunities.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
- Employee assistance and wellbeing support, including access to a 24-hour online GP.
- Uniform, boot allowance and toolbox insurance.
- Employee recognition and long-service rewards.
The Role
You will oversee the day-to-day running of the Vehicle Maintenance Unit, ensuring the team, facilities and resources are organised to meet customer fleet requirements. Leading from the front, you will balance workshop efficiency, cost control and service quality while supporting your team's development.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan staffing levels, workloads and workshop capacity to meet fleet maintenance demands.
- Manage labour costs and the use of external contractors.
- Monitor workshop performance across retail, warranty and internal contract work.
- Control work in progress, cash processes and workshop service pricing in conjunction with senior management.
- Maintain safe working practices, support audits and oversee contractor compliance.
- Ensure workshop bays, equipment, tools and facilities are used effectively.
- Support recruitment and induction, coach employees and review individual performance against agreed targets.
- Identify improvements and contribute to planning for staffing, equipment and facility investment.
What We're Looking For
- A Level 3 qualification in Vehicle Repair and Maintenance, such as NVQ, City & Guilds or IMI.
- Previous experience in VMU management, HGV workshop management or a similar commercial vehicle leadership role.
- The ability to motivate a team, set clear expectations and maintain high standards.
- Commercial awareness and an understanding of workshop costs, productivity and work in progress.
- Strong communication, organisation and prioritisation skills.
- A calm, practical approach to changing workloads and customer requirements.
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VMU Manager / HGV Workshop Manager employer: ISQ Recruitment
As a Design and Development Engineer in Norfolk, you will join a dynamic team that values innovation and collaboration, offering a unique blend of CAD design and hands-on project involvement. The company fosters a supportive work culture with opportunities for professional growth, allowing you to take ownership of projects and develop your skills in an advanced engineering environment. With a commitment to employee development and a focus on practical engineering solutions, this role provides a rewarding pathway for early-career engineers looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VMU Manager / HGV Workshop Manager
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like ISQ Recruitment, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to ISQ Recruitment specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at ISQ Recruitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with ISQ Recruitment, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like ISQ Recruitment value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.