General Manager

Octane Recruitment; Dunstable; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic automotive company is seeking a General Manager for a high-volume used car operation in Dunstable. This role requires a proven leader with experience in automotive retail, responsible for driving sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction. The General Manager will oversee dealership operations, set KPIs, and develop teams while ensuring compliance with regulations. Competitive salary up to £50,000 with an OTE of £80-90k+, along with executive benefits and a company vehicle.

Benefits

Company vehicle

Uncapped OTE structure

Executive benefits

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a General Manager, Sales Manager, or Dealer Principal.
• Ability to analyse data and deliver results.
• Operationally sharp with a commitment to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day running of a high-volume used car dealership.
• Set and exceed monthly KPIs for sales performance and profitability.
• Lead and coach department managers to create a high-performance culture.

Skills

Proven experience in high-volume automotive retail

Strong commercial acumen

Inspirational leadership

Stock management expertise

Customer-focused approach

Job description

General Manager - High-Volume Used Car Operation

Location: Dunstable

Salary: Up to £50,000 + bonus, OTE 80-90k+

Ref: 29517

Employment Type: Full‑Time, 5 day weeks, Saturday's included

Are you a dynamic automotive leader with a proven track record of driving performance in a fast‑paced used car environment? Our client is seeking a commercially‑minded General Manager to take ownership of a high‑volume used car operation, leading from the front to maximise sales, profitability, customer satisfaction, and team development.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day‑to‑day running of a high‑volume used car dealership, ensuring smooth operational delivery across Sales, Service, and Preparation.
• Set and exceed monthly KPIs for sales performance, profitability, stock turn, and customer service.
• Implement robust pricing and stocking strategies to maximise margin and optimise inventory mix.
• Lead, coach, and develop department managers and wider teams to create a high‑performance culture.
• Ensure compliance with FCA regulations, company policies, and health & safety standards.
• Maintain strong relationships with external partners, suppliers, and finance/insurance providers.
• Champion an exceptional customer experience across all touchpoints.

About You

• Proven experience as a General Manager, Sales Manager, or Dealer Principal within a high‑volume automotive retail or used car environment.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to analyse data, identify opportunities, and deliver results.
• Inspirational leadership style with the ability to motivate teams and drive accountability.
• Well‑versed in stock management, pricing strategy, and modern digital retail processes.
• Customer‑focused, operationally sharp, and committed to continuous improvement.

What's On Offer

• Competitive basic salary with an uncapped OTE structure.
• A senior leadership role with full autonomy to shape operations.
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic, forward‑thinking automotive business.
• Company vehicle + additional executive benefits.

Consultant: Jason Evans – Octane Recruitment