Posted: 21h ago
The role
VMU Manager
Location: Oxfordshire
Salary: £45,000 per annum
Hours: Monday to Friday, 07:00 - 16:30 (45 hours per week) with flexibility required.
The Opportunity
We are recruiting for an experienced VMU Manager to lead a busy commercial vehicle maintenance operation.
This is an excellent opportunity for a strong people manager who leads from the front, creates a positive working environment, and can motivate teams to deliver exceptional results. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing workshop operations, managing performance, controlling costs, and ensuring the highest standards of service delivery.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage workforce resources to meet customer fleet maintenance requirements.
Control labour costs and manage the use of third-party contractors where required.
Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, audits, and contractor working practices.
Oversee workshop facilities, equipment, tooling, diagnostic systems, and workplace efficiency.
Support planning and investment decisions relating to workshop facilities, equipment, and staffing.
Review workshop pricing and recommend adjustments in line with market conditions.
Monitor and report on workshop performance, including retail activity, warranty work, and internal contracts.
Manage work-in-progress (WIP) and maintain effective cash control processes.
Recruit, onboard, and develop new team members.
Lead, coach, and motivate employees to maximise engagement, retention, and performance.
Set performance objectives and regularly review progress against agreed targets.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have:
Level 3 qualification in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (NVQ, City & Guilds, IMI or equivalent).
Previous experience in a VMU, workshop management, or commercial vehicle environment.
Strong leadership and people management skills.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to motivate and engage teams.
Commercial awareness and experience managing budgets and operational performance.
Strong organisational and time management skills.
The ability to remain resilient and make effective decisions in a fast-paced environment.
What's on Offer
£45,000 basic salary
Permanent, full-time position
Monday to Friday working pattern
Career development opportunities
Stable and growing business
Supportive team environment
If you're an experienced workshop or fleet maintenance leader looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you.
Forward Assist Recruitment is operating as an employment agency. Forward Assist Recruitment is an Equal Opportunities employer; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds