Many dealerships regard the automotive service manager as an integral part of their business. They are the people responsible for acting as a go-between customers and service staff. They are also responsible for other duties within this department.

They are responsible for hiring and supervising employees in the service department and ensuring that they have the best candidates working for them. This includes monitoring how they work in maintaining company standards. They are also responsible for training to ensure they give this level of service. They are the ones who undertake the employee evaluations in their department.

They must set a business plan into place and enforce the goals so they are met. This makes them accountable for the budgeting of the department in making sure the labor costs are kept in check, inventory balances, and they suffer no additional costs by retaining employees. This also covers a marketing campaign plan to gain new customers, as well as keep the old – through coupons, merchandising and staffing needs.

They must stay current with the changes in the industry by attending classes, seminars, and reading literature. This also includes understanding and implementing any policy changes within the dealership, and offering suggestions for change to make the department run smoother. They must also be able to schedule classes for other employees and themselves when such are offered through the car manufacturer so everyone gets the most current information.

It is also the automotive service manager’s responsibility to stay on top of warranties and recalls offered by the manufacture. They will be required to send the warranty work in for payment and will be held accountable for write-offs to the department for failure to comply with the information. They also are the link between the factory representative and the dealership, and may be required to attend meetings and conferences to further this relationship.

The main duty for them day to day is with customer complaints and service. They have to develop and utilize a plan to ensure customers return, which often will include compromising within company policy for a resolution to make the customer happy. They must also be able to bring in new customers and provide a level of service to make them turn into repeat customers.

Many places do require a four year degree in Business Administration or with a tech field, and some will accept extensive experience in lieu of one. They do require 5 years experience in the automotive industry as well, and many prefer to have an ASE, or Automotive Service Excellence, certification for the job. The right candidate is important to the position, and a strong base in customer service is also a must.

Being an automotive service management team can be a rewarding career that offers a good wage upwards of $55,000.00 annually. This is dependent upon the location and size of the dealership that you’re looking to work for, as well as your experience level. A automotive service manager is a career you can choose that offers some stability since service accounts for a good portion of the dealerships business.