General Manager - Automotive

Major Recruitment North West Perms; Hitchin; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Job summary

Major Recruitment North West Perms in Hitchin, England, seeks a hands-on General Manager to lead a small team across sales, operations and customer service. You will drive day-to-day management with a focus on delivering excellent customer experiences and growing profitability.

The successful candidate will oversee sales and service, maintain high vehicle standards, and liaise with manufacturers in a busy, independent environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a management or senior role (automotive, leisure, or retail preferred).
• Strong sales ability with a proactive, hands-on approach.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations across sales, service, and administration.
• Actively contribute to vehicle sales, supporting customers from enquiry through to handover.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and handle escalated queries.
• Lead, motivate, and support a small team.
• Monitor business performance, controlling costs and driving profitability.
• Liaise with manufacturers.
• Promote the business at industry events to generate new sales opportunities.
• Maintain high standards across the site, including vehicle presentation and facilities.

Skills

Management experience

Sales skills

Customer service

Communication

Leadership

Job description

General Manager - Automotive

Location: Hitchin, Hertfordshire

Salary: £45,000 per annum plus bonus

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Hours: 40 hours per week - Will include weekend working hours

About our client

Our client is a long-established, family-owned business specialising in the sales of caravans, motorhomes, and campervans. Known for their personal service and loyal customer base, they pride ourselves on offering high-quality vehicles alongside a friendly, knowledgeable experience.

They are seeking a hands‑on General Manager to lead a small but ambitious team, drive ongoing business success, and work closely with the owner, benefiting from their support, mentorship, and collaborative approach.

The Role

This is a varied and hands‑on position. As General Manager, you will take full responsibility for the day‑to‑day running of the business, leading from the front across sales, operations, and customer service.

This role would suit someone who enjoys being involved in all aspects of a business and thrives in a small, independent environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations across sales, service, and administration
• Actively contribute to vehicle sales, supporting customers from enquiry through to handover
• Deliver exceptional customer service and handle any escalated queries
• Lead, motivate, and support a small team
• Monitor business performance, controlling costs and driving profitability
• Liaise with manufacturers
• Promoting the business at industry events to generate new sales opportunities.
• Maintain high standards across the site, including vehicle presentation / displays and facilities
• Ensure compliance with health & safety and relevant industry regulations

About You

• Proven experience in a management or senior role (automotive, leisure, or retail preferred)
• Strong sales ability with a proactive, hands‑on approach
• Comfortable managing multiple responsibilities in a small business setting
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Commercially aware with a focus on profitability and growth
• A natural leader who enjoys supporting and developing a team

What you can expect in return

• Competitive salary, complemented by a performance‑related bonus scheme linked to sales and profitability
• Opportunity to manage and shape a growing independent business
• Supportive and close‑knit team environment
• Varied and engaging role with real autonomy
• Long‑term career opportunity within the leisure vehicle sector

Working Hours

Full‑time, site‑based role

Weekend working required (as part of a retail environment)

Flexibility required to meet business needs