Commercial Vehicle Workshop Manager

Tru Talent; East Hagbourne; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Tru Talent in Didcot is seeking an experienced VMU Manager to lead a busy commercial vehicle workshop. You will drive performance, manage staff, and ensure high safety and service standards.

The role requires leadership, strong organisational and cost-control skills, and a proactive, hands-on approach to maintaining high workshop standards. A £45,000 salary is offered with a 45-hour week, Monday to Friday.

Qualifications

• NVQ/City & Guilds/IMI Level 3 in Vehicle Repair and Maintenance.
• Experience in a similar management role within the commercial vehicle or automotive sector.
• Strong leadership and customer service focus.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage workforce availability to meet customer and fleet requirements.
• Control labour costs, including external contractors.
• Ensure compliance with safety audits and contractor working practices.
• Oversee workshop facilities, equipment, tools and diagnostic systems.
• Support investment planning for workshop facilities, equipment and staffing.
• Review workshop service pricing to remain competitive.
• Monitor and report on daily workshop performance (retail, warranty, internal work).
• Manage work in progress (WIP) and cash control.
• Recruit, induct, manage and develop workshop employees.
• Coach and motivate the team and review performance against objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organisational skills

Time management

Education

A Level 3 qualification in Vehicle Repair and Maintenance (NVQ, City & Guilds, or IMI)

Job description

Commercial Vehicle Workshop Manager / VMU Manager

Location: Didcot

Salary: £45,000 per annum

Hours: Monday to Friday, 45 hours per week07:00 - 16:30 (Flexibility required)

We are seeking an experienced and motivated VMU Manager to lead a busy commercial vehicle workshop in Didcot.

This is an excellent opportunity for a confident leader who can motivate and develop a team, drive workshop performance, and ensure the department operates efficiently while delivering excellent customer service.

The Role

As a VMU Manager, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day management of the workshop, overseeing workforce planning, operational performance, labour costs, and customer requirements.

You will lead by example, creating a positive working environment where employees feel supported, motivated, and encouraged to achieve their full potential. You will also play a key role in maintaining workshop profitability, efficiency, and high operational standards.

Key Responsibilities of the Commercial Vehicle Workshop Manager /VMU Manager:

• Plan and manage workforce availability to meet customer and fleet requirements
• Control labour costs, including the use of external contractors
• Ensure compliance with safety audits and contractor working practices
• Oversee workshop facilities, equipment, tools, diagnostic systems, and work areas
• Support investment planning for workshop facilities, equipment, and staffingReview workshop service pricing to remain competitive within the market
• Monitor and report on daily workshop performance, including retail, warranty, and internal work
• Manage work in progress (WIP) and cash control
• Recruit, induct, manage, and develop workshop employees
• Coach and motivate the team, supporting staff retention and performance
• Set individual and team targets and regularly review performance against objectives
• Ensure the workshop operates efficiently and meets customer expectations

This role will suit you if you have:

• A Level 3 qualification in Vehicle Repair and Maintenance (NVQ, City & Guilds, or IMI)
• Previous experience in a similar management role within the commercial vehicle or automotive industry
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and inspire a team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• A resilient and positive approach to managing challenges
• Strong organisational and time-management skills
• Good commercial awareness and the ability to manage costs and workshop performance
• The ability to prioritise workloads and meet customer demands
• A proactive, hands-on approach with a commitment to maintaining high standards