Ready to make your mark?
Dunedin City Motors is looking for an energetic, commercially minded Service Manager to lead our Service Department and help take it to the next level. This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for someone who knows how to bring people together, create a positive workshop culture and turn good processes into great customer experiences and business results.
You’ll have real scope to make a difference: developing your team, improving workshop flow, lifting productivity and profitability, and making sure customers feel looked after every time they deal with us.
We represent Ford and Mazda, and you’ll work with a well-established local dealership that values its people, its customers and its place in the community.
We’re keen to hear from an experienced automotive service leader - or a strong service professional ready for their next step - who brings initiative, sound commercial judgement and the confidence to make things happen.
What you’ll be responsible for
Lead and grow your people - Build a capable, engaged team with clear expectations, great communication and a culture of ownership and continuous improvement.
Drive performance - Own departmental results, track key performance indicators and identify practical ways to improve productivity, efficiency and profitability.
Keep the workshop moving - Oversee workflow, capacity, resources and day-to-day operations so work is completed efficiently and to a high standard.
Put customers first - Build strong customer relationships, resolve concerns constructively and make sure the service experience reflects the quality of the brands we represent.
Improve how we work - Challenge outdated processes, strengthen systems and bring forward ideas that make life easier for customers and the team.
Work as one team - Build productive relationships with technicians, advisors, parts, sales, suppliers, manufacturers and the wider leadership team.
Maintain high standards - Keep health and safety, workmanship quality and manufacturer requirements front of mind.
What you’ll bring
You’ll be a practical, positive leader who enjoys developing people and getting results. Ideally, you’ll bring:
Leadership or management experience in an automotive dealership or service/workshop environment.
A sound understanding of service operations, workshop workflow and customer expectations.
Commercial awareness and the ability to use performance information to improve results.
The ability to motivate people, set clear standards and have constructive conversations when needed.
Strong communication, organisation and problem-solving skills.
A proactive approach, a sense of ownership and a genuine drive to keep improving.
A full New Zealand driver licence.
What's in it for you?
A competitive salary and performance-based incentives – A rewarding package that recognises your leadership, contribution and results, with the opportunity to earn more as you help drive the success of our Service Department.
Drive the latest Ford or Mazda – Enjoy the benefit of a company vehicle, typically a new Ford or Mazda, along with a fuel card. It's a great opportunity to get behind the wheel of the latest models while enjoying the convenience of a company vehicle as part of your package.
Make your mark – Take ownership of workshop performance, productivity, customer satisfaction and profitability, with the opportunity to make a genuine difference to how our service operation performs.
Lead a team that makes a difference – Bring out the best in your people, build a positive workshop culture and help create an environment where great work and great customer experiences go hand in hand.
Work with great brands – Be part of an established Dunedin automotive business representing two of New Zealand's best-known automotive brands, Ford and Mazda.
Enjoy the Dunedin lifestyle – Make the most of everything Otago has to offer, from stunning coastlines and the Otago Peninsula to great local cafés, outdoor adventures and a lifestyle that offers a little more room to breathe.
Make Dunedin your next move
If you’re considering a move from elsewhere in New Zealand, Dunedin has plenty to offer beyond the job. It’s a character-filled coastal city with a strong community feel, a lively café and arts scene, great sport, and a beautiful harbour and coastline right on the doorstep.
When the working day is done, you can be walking a beach, exploring the Otago Peninsula, heading out on local trails, or planning a weekend away in Central Otago. Whether you’re into mountain biking, surfing, fishing, hiking, food and wine, or simply having more room to enjoy life outside work, Otago offers a fantastic mix of city convenience and outdoor adventure.
Dunedin City Motors has been part of Otago for more than 100 years. We’re proud of our local roots and committed to building a business where our people can do their best work and our customers receive an excellent experience.
Ready for your next challenge?
If you’re ready to lead with energy, improve performance and make a genuine impact, we’d love to hear from you.
Send your CV and cover letter to:
Abbie Davey
HR & Health & Safety Administrator
[email protected]
Applications close: 24 November 2026
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to close the vacancy once the right person has been appointed.