Workshop Controller

Drive Motor Retail; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave

Staff discounts

Health plan

Rewards portal

Referral bonus

Training opportunities

Supportive management

Job summary

Drive Motor Retail in Ipswich is seeking a Workshop Controller to lead our Aftersales workshop, ensuring safe, efficient operation and high-quality workmanship. You will manage a team of skilled technicians, coordinate with Service Advisors and Parts, and drive productivity while maintaining exceptional customer satisfaction.

This hands-on leadership role emphasizes technical knowledge and people management in a busy dealer environment.

Qualifications

• Experience as Workshop Controller or similar leadership role.
• Strong organisational and team management skills.
• Excellent knowledge of vehicle maintenance and diagnostics.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines with high quality workmanship.
• Proficient communication across departments.

Responsibilities

• Plan and allocate work to technicians based on job requirements and skillset.
• Monitor progress and support technicians with technical queries.
• Ensure work meets manufacturer and dealer standards.
• Conduct quality checks and uphold health and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with Service Advisors and Parts to maintain workflow.
• Coach technicians to improve performance and progression.
• Maintain accurate documentation and warranty/compliance processes.

Tools

DMS (Dealer Management System)

Job description

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
• Proficient in using dealer management systems (DMS) - training provided
• 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.