Depot / Franchise Manager

Company: Sapphire Vehicle Services Ltd
Apply for the Depot / Franchise Manager
Location: Basingstoke
Job Description:

Competitive salary of £75,000 per year plus 30% Bonus scheme & company car scheme.

Sapphire Vehicles Services Limited is a leading commercial vehicle maintenance company providing a comprehensive range of services to support both new and established businesses.

Currently operating 17 depots throughout the UK, Sapphire supports customers from a variety of industries with the day-to-day running of their commercial vehicles.

We are now seeking an experienced Depot / Franchise Manager to join our team in Basingstoke. This is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the fleet workshop operation alongside multi-franchise dealer standards, including Daimler Trucks and Isuzu.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing business offering strong career progression and the chance to lead a high-performing depot.

As the Depot / Franchise Manager, you will be responsible for:

  • Leading the depot across all operational areas, including workshop, service and parts
  • Managing direct reports including the Workshop Manager, Admin/Service Supervisor and Parts team
  • Developing and implementing depot standards and procedures
  • Setting and maintaining service levels to achieve all KPI’s set by customers and manufacturers
  • Building and maintaining strong relationships with customers and manufacturers
  • Ensuring response and delivery times are consistently met
  • Driving improvements in service methods to increase efficiency and productivity
  • Managing WIP levels to meet agreed targets
  • Resolving service issues and customer complaints in a timely and professional manner
  • Conducting appraisals and supporting the development of team members
  • Producing and presenting reports to senior management
  • Supporting commercial growth and business development opportunities
  • Ensuring the depot operates in line with company and franchise standards
  • Maintaining full compliance with Health & Safety, ISO standards and all statutory requirements
  • Ensuring budgeted financial performance is achieved or exceeded

As the Depot / Franchise Manager, you will have:

  • Strong technical background with a City & Guilds qualification (preferred)
  • Previous experience managing a commercial vehicle workshop (essential)
  • Experience within a commercial vehicle dealership environment (preferred)
  • Experience with Mercedes/Daimler Truck dealerships (advantageous)
  • Knowledge of systems such as Keyloop and e-WIP (preferred)
  • Good IT skills and general education
  • IOSH qualification (preferred)
  • Management qualification (advantageous)
  • Full clean driving licence

Key Skills & Competencies:

  • Strong leadership and people management skills
  • Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills
  • In-depth knowledge of industry best practices and standards
  • Strong problem-solving ability
  • High attention to detail
  • Ability to influence, motivate and develop teams

Job Details:

  • Location: Basingstoke
  • Reporting to: Regional Manager
  • Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Salary & Benefits:

  • £75,000 basic salary
  • 30% bonus scheme
  • Company car scheme
  • Company pension
  • Career progression opportunities within a growing business

Posted: April 13th, 2026