Head of Business
Department: Dealership Operations
Reports To: Group Operations Director / Managing Director
Role Purpose
The 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 & Responsibilities
Leadership & 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