PANEL BEATING Workshop Manager / Senior Estimator

PANEL BEATING Workshop Manager / Senior Estimator

Position

We are seeking an experienced Workshop Manager/Senior Estimator to oversee the daily operations of a busy insurance-approved motor body repair facility. The successful candidate will be responsible for workshop operations, estimating, insurer liaison, customer service, staff management, quality control, supplier coordination and ensuring vehicles are repaired to the highest industry standards.

The ideal candidate will be capable of managing the operational and administrative aspects of the workshop while maintaining strong relationships with insurers, suppliers and customers.

· Workshop Operations

· Manage daily workshop production.

· Allocate work to technicians.

· Monitor productivity and efficiency.

· Ensure vehicles are completed within agreed turnaround times.

· Manage workflow from vehicle arrival through to delivery.

· Prepare accurate repair estimates.

· Liaise with insurance assessors.

· Negotiate estimate approvals where required.

· Submit supplementary estimates.

· Monitor repair authorizations.

· Customer Service

· Provide regular progress updates.

· Handle customer queries and complaints professionally.

· Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.

· Quality Control

· Inspect repairs before delivery.

· Maintain company workmanship standards.

· Staff Management, Supervise workshop staff.

· Assist with training and development.

· Maintain discipline and productivity.

· Coordinate leave and daily attendance.

· Supplier Management

· Order and track replacement parts.

· Liaise with parts suppliers.

· Coordinate with paint suppliers and technical representatives.

· Control material usage where possible.

· Administration

· Maintain accurate repair documentation.

· Monitor outstanding jobs.

· Ensure insurer requirements are met.

· Produce management reports when required.

· Minimum 5 years' experience in a panel shop environment.

· Previous Workshop Manager, Production Manager or Senior Estimator experience.

· Insurance estimating experience.

· Strong knowledge of modern repair methods.

· Excellent communication skills.

· Computer literacy.

· Valid driver's license.

· Audatex estimating experience.

· Experience dealing with major South African insurers.

· Knowledge of OEM repair standards.

· Leadership experience managing workshop teams.

· Personal Attributes

· Strong leadership.

· Calm under pressure.

· High attention to detail.

· Honest and professional.

· Strong problem-solving ability.

· Customer-focused.

· Team player.

Pay: R18 000,00 - R24 000,00 per month

Work Location: In person