Hands-On Workshop Manager: Fleet & Compliance Leader

TipTopJob; Sittingbourne; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Countrystyle is seeking an experienced Workshop Manager to take ownership of the Ridham site workshop in Sittingbourne. You will lead from the front, ensuring every vehicle, plant item and piece of equipment is maintained to high safety and operational standards, while managing budget and driving a culture of continuous improvement.

The role blends hands-on technical work with day-to-day supervision of mechanics, fitters and apprentices, and requires strong knowledge of inspections, PEM, DVSA

Responsibilities

• Hands-On Technical Work: carry out routine inspections, servicing, maintenance and repairs to fleet vehicles, plant, machinery and site equipment and identify faults across hydraulic, mechanical and electrical systems.
• Workshop Leadership: lead, supervise and allocate daily tasks to mechanics, fitters, apprentices, and other workshop staff; provide hands-on guidance and conduct performance reviews.
• Fleet Compliance: ensure 100 Planned Event Maintenance (PEM) compliance and adherence to DVSA requirements, Operator Licence undertakings and manufacturer standards; oversee MOT preparation and first-time pass rates.
• Planning, Scheduling: coordinate servicing schedules and downtime to minimise disruption; monitor productivity, throughput and vehicle availability KPIs; escalate risks where needed.
• Record Keeping: maintain auditable records including inspection sheets, service records and defect reports; ensure documentation is up to date and compliant with standards.
• Financial & Compliance: own the workshop budget, control labour costs and parts usage; drive cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality; ensure health, safety and environmental compliance.
• Health & Safety: ensure all workshop operations comply with DVSA and company standards; maintain audit-ready conditions and readiness for DVSA inspections.

Job description

Countrystyle is seeking an experienced Workshop Manager to take ownership of the Ridham site workshop in Sittingbourne. You will lead from the front, ensuring every vehicle, plant item and piece of equipment is maintained to high safety and operational standards, while managing budget and driving a culture of continuous improvement.

The role blends hands-on technical work with day-to-day supervision of mechanics, fitters and apprentices, and requires strong knowledge of inspections, PEM, DVSA