Director Operations - Auto Body/Collision - Watsonville, CA - VITUS Search Group

Position Summary:
The Director of Auto Body Shop Operations is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational management, and performance of multiple auto body shop locations. This role ensures that all shops operate efficiently, meet performance targets, and deliver superior customer service. The Director will oversee regional managers, develop operational strategies, and drive growth and profitability across the organization.
Key Responsibilities:

1. 
   Strategic Leadership:
   
   • Develop and implement the overall operational strategy for multiple auto body shop locations.
   • Establish short-term and long-term goals for performance, growth, and profitability.
   • Collaborate with executive leadership to align operational goals with company vision and objectives.
   • Lead initiatives to streamline processes, improve quality, and enhance customer experience.
2. 
   Operational Oversight:
   
   • Oversee day-to-day operations across all auto body shop locations, ensuring consistency in quality, safety, and service delivery.
   • Develop, implement, and monitor operational policies and procedures to ensure industry compliance and best practices.
   • Conduct regular site visits to evaluate performance, identify areas for improvement, and provide support to shop management teams.
   • Ensure all locations meet local, state, and federal regulations, as well as industry standards (e.g., I-CAR, ASE).
3. 
   Team Management & Development:
   
   • Supervise and mentor regional and shop managers, providing leadership and direction to achieve company goals.
   • Lead recruitment, training, and development efforts for key management positions, ensuring a strong pipeline of leadership talent.
   • Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement across all locations.
   • Conduct performance evaluations, implement development plans, and address personnel issues as needed.
4. 
   Financial Performance & Budgeting:
   
   • Develop and manage operational budgets for all auto body shop locations.
   • Analyze financial reports (P&L statements, revenue, expenses, etc.) to assess the financial health of each location and identify opportunities for cost control and revenue growth.
   • Work with regional managers to implement strategies to increase profitability while maintaining high service standards.
   • Track and report on key performance metrics (KPIs), including shop productivity, customer satisfaction, cycle times, and warranty claims.
5. 
   Customer Experience & Quality Control:
   
   • Ensure all shops deliver exceptional customer service by maintaining high-quality standards for repairs and service.
   • Develop customer retention strategies and monitor customer satisfaction through feedback, surveys, and reviews.
   • Handle escalated customer complaints and work with shop management to resolve complex issues.
   • Oversee warranty processes and ensure customer concerns are handled efficiently and fairly.
6. 
   Expansion & Business Development:
   
   • Drive business growth by identifying new opportunities for expansion, including potential new shop locations or acquisitions.
   • Build and maintain strong relationships with key business partners, including insurance companies, fleet accounts, and parts suppliers.
   • Collaborate with the marketing team to implement strategies for promoting services and increasing brand visibility.
   • Conduct market analysis to stay ahead of industry trends, customer preferences, and competitive pressures.
7. 
   Compliance & Safety:
   
   • Ensure that all locations are compliant with safety regulations, environmental standards, and industry-specific certifications (e.g., OSHA, EPA, etc.).
   • Lead initiatives to maintain a safe work environment, including regular safety training and audits at each location.
   • Ensure shops maintain necessary certifications, such as I-CAR and ASE, and that staff training is up to date.

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Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business management, automotive technology, or related field; MBA preferred.
• Experience:
  • 10+ years of experience in the automotive repair or collision industry, with 5+ years in a multi-location management or director-level role.
  • Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale operations and driving business growth.
  • Strong knowledge of collision repair processes, equipment, and industry standards.
• Certifications: I-CAR and ASE certifications are a plus.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with auto body shop management software (e.g., CCC ONE, Mitchell), Microsoft Office Suite, and financial reporting tools.
• Other Skills:
  • Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on process improvement and operational efficiency.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities.
  • Customer-centric mindset, with a focus on delivering high-quality service and building long-term relationships.

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Benefits:

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• Retirement plan with company match.
• Company vehicle or allowance.
• Ongoing professional development and career growth opportunities.