Workshop Controller

Drivemotorretail; Ipswich; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave 24 days increasing to 27

Staff discounts on services, repairs,

Health & wellbeing support

Employee rewards portal

Referral bonus scheme

Professional development

Supportive management

Job summary

Drive Motor Retail is seeking a hands-on Workshop Controller in Ipswich to lead the workshop team, oversee daily operations and ensure high standards of safety, quality and productivity. You will coordinate with service and parts to optimise workflow and meet customer deadlines, while coaching technicians and driving performance improvements.

The role requires technical knowledge, people-management skills and a commitment to delivering a first-class service experience in a busy dealership

Qualifications

• Experience leading workshop teams or as a senior technician.
• Strong knowledge of vehicle maintenance and diagnostics.
• Excellent organisation and people management skills.
• Effective communicator across departments.
• Full UK driving licence held for at least 2 years.

Responsibilities

• Plan and allocate work to technicians based on job requirements and skillsets.
• Monitor progress and support the team in resolving technical queries.
• Ensure timely completion of work meeting manufacturer and dealer standards.
• Conduct quality checks and uphold health and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with Service Advisors and Parts to maintain clear communication.
• Assist with diagnosis and provide technical guidance when required.
• Monitor KPIs such as efficiency, productivity and first-time fix rate.
• Coach technicians to improve performance and progression.
• Ensure accurate documentation and compliance processes.

Job description

2 Augusta Close, The Havens Ransomes Europark, Ipswich

IP3 9SS

Workshop Controller

2 Augusta Cl, Ipswich IP3 9SS
Basic Salary: £35,000 + Bonus Opportunities (OTE up to £45,000)
Monday to Friday 8.00am – 5.30pm - 1 Hour Lunch - No weekends.

About Us

Drive Motor Retail is one of the UK’s largest and most successful automotive dealer groups, representing some of the most recognisable brands in the industry. We pride ourselves on delivering an outstanding customer experience and investing in the development of our people. As a Workshop Controller, you’ll play a key leadership role within our Aftersales team, ensuring efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction across all workshop operations.

Benefits Package Includes:

• Annual Leave:24 days increasing to 27 with service, plus bank holidays
• Staff Perks & Discounts:On services, repairs, parts, and vehicles for you and your family
• Health & Wellbeing Support:Medicare cash plan with same-day online GP access and support for dental/optical needs
• Employee Rewards Portal:Exclusive access to hundreds of retailer discounts
• Referral Bonus Scheme:Recommend a new team member and receive a generous reward
• Professional Development:Access to training and manufacturer-accredited programmes
• Supportive Management:and a well-equipped, modern workshop environment

About the Role

As Workshop Controller, you will oversee the daily operations of the workshop, managing a team of skilled technicians and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. You’ll liaise closely with the service and parts departments, coordinating job flow and prioritising workloads to meet customer deadlines and maximise productivity.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring technical knowledge, people management skills, and a commitment to delivering a class-leading service experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and allocate work to technicians based on job requirements and technician skillsets
• Monitor job progress and support the team in resolving technical queries
• Ensure all work is completed on time and in line with manufacturer and dealership standards
• Conduct quality checks and uphold health and safety procedures across the workshop
• Work collaboratively with the Service Advisors and Parts Department to maintain clear communication
• Support with diagnosis and provide technical guidance when required
• Monitor workshop KPIs including efficiency, productivity, and first-time fix rate
• Coach and develop technicians to improve performance and support progression
• Ensure accurate documentation and adherence to warranty and compliance processes

What We’re Looking For:

• Previous experience as a Workshop Controller, Senior Technician, or in a similar workshop leadership role
• Excellent understanding of vehicle maintenance and diagnostic procedures
• Strong organisational and team management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment
• Effective communicator who can build positive relationships across departments
• Full UK driving licence – held for a minimum of 2 years

Inclusion & Equality

Drive Motor Retail is committed to being an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, and are proud to foster an inclusive, supportive, and respectful workplace for everyone.