Head of BusinessDepartment: Dealership OperationsReports To: Group Operations Director / Managing DirectorRole PurposeThe Head of Business has full responsibility for the overall performance, profitability, compliance, and leadership of a franchised motor dealership. The role is accountable for driving sales and aftersales results, delivering exceptional customer experience, ensuring regulatory compliance, and developing high-performing management teams in line with manufacturer and group standards.
Key Duties & ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Management
*Lead and inspire all dealership departments including Sales, Aftersales, Parts, Service, Bodyshop, and Administration
*Set clear objectives and hold department heads accountable for performance
*Create a positive, compliant, and high-performance culture
Commercial & Financial Performance
*Full P&L responsibility for the dealership
*Deliver budgeted profit, volume, and margin targets
*Control costs and identify opportunities for growth and efficiency
*Analyse and act upon key performance indicators across all departments
Sales Operations
*Oversee new and used vehicle sales performance, stock management, and pricing strategy
*Ensure strong FCA compliance, finance penetration, and adherence to Consumer Duty
*Maintain manufacturer standards for sales processes and reporting
Aftersales Operations
*Drive aftersales profitability through productivity, retention, and quality control
*Ensure service, parts, and bodyshop departments operate efficiently and profitably
*Monitor technician utilisation, training compliance, and workshop performance
Customer Experience
*Ensure consistently high levels of customer satisfaction and CSI performance
*Handle escalated customer complaints and ensure timely resolution
*Embed customer-first culture across all departments
Compliance & Governance
*Ensure compliance with FCA regulations, employment law, health & safety, and manufacturer requirements
*Prepare for and manage manufacturer audits and performance reviews
*Maintain robust governance, reporting, and risk management controls
People Development
*Recruit, develop, and retain senior management and key talent
*Conduct performance reviews, succession planning, and training development
*Ensure all mandatory training and certifications are maintained
Manufacturer & Stakeholder Management
*Act as the primary point of contact for manufacturer partners
*Build strong relationships with group leadership, suppliers, and external partners
Skills, Knowledge & Experience*Proven experience as a Head of Business, General Manager, or Dealer Principal within the motor trade
*Strong commercial and financial acumen with P&L responsibility
*In-depth knowledge of FCA regulations and dealership compliance
*Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
*Experience operating within franchised manufacturer standards
Personal Attributes*Results-driven and commercially focused
*Strong leadership presence and credibility
*Highly organised with strong attention to detail
*Customer-focused with a professional approach