Service Advisor Apprenticeship

Inchcape Retail Limited; Bournemouth; On-site; GBP 16,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious automotive service centre seeks a Customer Service Apprentice to assist customers, manage service appointments, and gain a nationally recognised qualification. You will learn about vehicle maintenance coordination and develop essential customer service skills. The role starts on October 30, 2025, has a salary of £15,704 in the first year, and comprehensive training is provided.

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills essential for customer interaction.
• GCSEs in English and Maths are key entry requirements.
• Ability to organise and prioritise workload effectively.

Responsibilities

• Assist customers in scheduling service appointments.
• Liaise with service technicians about vehicle concerns.
• Maintain a clean and organised service reception area.

Skills

Customer care

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Organisational skills

Problem-solving

Education

GCSE in English (grade 4)

GCSE in Maths (grade 4)

Job description

Responsibilities

• Assist customers in scheduling service appointments, providing information on available services, and answering inquiries
• Greet customers in a professional and courteous manner, ensuring a positive service experience
• Liaise between customers and service technicians to convey vehicle concerns, service requirements, and estimated completion times
• Learn to interpret vehicle maintenance schedules, service manuals, and repair estimates to provide accurate recommendations to customers
• Coordinate with the parts department to ensure timely availability of required components for service appointments
• Keep customers informed of service progress, including any additional repairs or maintenance identified during inspections
• Handle customer complaints and concerns effectively, striving to achieve satisfactory resolutions
• Utilise computerised systems to input service orders, generate invoices, and maintain customer records accurately
• Maintain a clean and organised service reception area, ensuring a professional and welcoming atmosphere for customers
• Participate in training sessions and workshops to enhance customer service skills, product knowledge, and industry awareness
• Use a range of questioning skills, including listening and responding to build rapport, determine customer needs and expectations, and achieve positive engagement
• Depending on job role and work environment: use appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication skills, along with summarising language during face-to-face communications
• Depending on job role and work environment: use appropriate communication skills, with reinforcement techniques to confirm understanding during non-facing customer interactions
• Use an appropriate tone of voice in all communications, including written and digital, that reflect the organisation's brand
• Provide clear explanations and offer options to help customers make choices that are mutually beneficial
• Be able to organise yourself, prioritise workload, and meet deadlines
• Demonstrate patience and calmness; show understanding of the customer's point of view
• Use appropriate sign-posting or resolution to meet customer needs and manage expectations
• Maintain informative communication during service recovery

Training and Qualifications

• The programme lasts for 12-14 months, and you'll achieve a nationally recognised qualification: Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner
• All apprentices are employed through the Dealer Network and attend week-long block training at the state-of-the-art Training Centre in Slough
• Block training is complemented by regular coaching visits, Virtual Classroom sessions, and E-Learning modules
• Please ensure you have copies of your GCSE, Scottish National, and Functional Skills certificates, as these may be requested during the application process
• The qualification serves as a cornerstone for building your career with opportunities within the expanding Dealer Network
• Upon successful completion, you’ll be well-equipped to advance into new roles
• This apprenticeship offers an opportunity to learn customer service and vehicle maintenance coordination within the automotive industry
• This role is suited for individuals with a passion for automobiles, strong communication skills, and a desire to learn and grow
• GCSE in English (grade 4) and Maths (grade 4) are referenced as part of the entry requirements
• Other relevant qualifications and experience may be considered
• Communication skills, IT skills, attention to detail, organisation, customer care, problem-solving, administrative skills, and patience are valued competencies

Salary, Hours and Start Date

• Salary: £15,704 for your first year, with potential increases based on age
• Hours: Monday – Friday, starting at 8:30am and ending at 5:30pm (40 hours per week). Specific hours may vary by dealer requirements
• Start date: Thursday 30 October 2025
• Duration: 1 year 3 months

About Porsche Centre Bournemouth

Porsche Centre Bournemouth has represented Porsche on the south coast for over forty years. We offer network-leading facilities, including multiple direct dialogue bays, a Porsche Approved SMART repair centre, and a state-of-the-art showroom. We are a Porsche Classic Partner with a dedicated team and a focus on building a Porsche Community in the area.