Dealer Principal (Automotive)

Tyron Consultancy; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading automotive dealership as a Dealer Principal in Johannesburg, where you'll lead operations, champion digital transformation, and drive customer satisfaction. This leadership role requires proven experience in dealership management, strategic planning, and exceptional interpersonal skills. Shape the future of vehicle sales and service in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in a dealer principal or general manager role.
• Strong track record in sales growth and P&L responsibility.
• In-depth knowledge of automotive industry regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic business plans.
• Oversee dealership departments for seamless operations.
• Manage budgeting and resource allocation.

Skills

Leadership

Commercial acumen

Negotiation

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Tools

Dealership management systems

Job description

Dealer Principal (Automotive) required in Sandton, Johannesburg.

A leadership role is available at a thriving automotive dealership with a fast-growing, customer-centric business that’s revolutionizing how South Africans buy, sell, and finance cars.

As the Dealer Principal, you’ll take full ownership of dealership operations, from amplifying sales and service performance to fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.

This position offers a unique opportunity to lead and inspire a multi-disciplinary team, partner with key stakeholders, and drive profitability and customer satisfaction in a dynamic, digital-first environment.

Minimum Requirements:

• Proven senior management experience in automotive dealership operations (minimum of 5years in a dealer principal or general manager role)
• Strong commercial acumen with a track record of delivering sales growth, P&L responsibility, and strategic planning
• Exceptional leadership and people-management skills, with demonstrated ability to coach, mentor, and motivate diverse teams
• In-depth knowledge of automotive industry regulations, compliance standards, and best practices
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills; capable of engaging with staff, OEMs, financiers, and customers alike
• Competent in digital tools and dealership management systems; able to champion technology-driven enhancements
• Valid South African driver’s license and readiness to travel regionally as required

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute strategic business plans to achieve sales, service, and financial targets
• Oversee all dealership departments, sales, service, parts, finance, and admin, to ensure seamless operations and alignment with corporate objectives.
• Recruit, train, and mentor dealership staff; instil a culture centred on customer experience, teamwork, and accountability
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), analyse results, and take corrective measures to optimize performance and profitability
• Manage budgeting, cost control, and resource allocation to support business growth and sustainability
• Maintain strong relationships with vehicle manufacturers, financing partners, insurance providers, and regulatory bodies
• Champion digital transformation initiatives to improve sales processes, customer engagement, and operational efficiency
• Ensure compliance with all legislative requirements, industry standards, and quality control protocols
• Represent the dealership at industry forums, events, and community engagement activities to build reputation and brand awareness
• Provide regular reports and updates to regional and executive leadership on dealership performance, market trends, and risks