Cloninger Automotive Dealership Service Manager

At Cloninger, we are dedicated to Improving the Lives of Our Associates, Guests, and Communities with "Just Better" automotive solutions. What makes us "Just Better"? It’s our commitment to putting our Guests first, being trustworthy, accountable, having a winning attitude, leading to serve, and striving to be better every single day.

Position Overview:

As a Cloninger Automotive Dealership Service Manager, you’ll be a vital leader in the dealership, inspiring a culture of excellence and accountability. You’re the driving force behind a top-performing service team, ensuring each guest receives outstanding maintenance and repair services with a guest-centric approach. We’re looking for someone with a passion for leadership, a dedication to guest satisfaction, and a commitment to excellence.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

Leadership & People Development

• Inspire and Empower the Team: Hire, train, and guide our talented service department staff, including technicians, service advisors, and support personnel. Foster a culture of growth, accountability, and excellence.
• Elevate Performance: Conduct regular one-on-ones to provide valuable feedback, celebrate successes, and support professional growth. Lead with empathy, coach with purpose, and develop a team of high performers.
• Set High Standards: Ensure adherence to Cloninger’s policies, procedures, and safety standards, creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

Guest Experience Excellence

• Champion the Guest Experience: Oversee the service process, creating a positive, seamless experience for every guest. Ensure each interaction builds trust, loyalty, and a sense of care.
• Resolve with Empathy: Address guest concerns promptly, finding proactive, positive solutions that exceed expectations and strengthen relationships.
• Cultivate Loyalty: Build lasting connections with guests, demonstrating our commitment to service and encouraging them to choose Cloninger again and again.

Optimized Service Operations

• Master Workflow Management: Coordinate and monitor service department scheduling, ensuring a smooth, efficient operation that keeps guests satisfied and schedules on track.
• Uphold Quality Standards: Implement robust quality control measures to guarantee every repair meets Cloninger’s high standards and every vehicle leaves in peak condition.
• Drive Productivity: Empower the team to deliver outstanding results, maximizing resources to meet both guest needs and business goals.

Financial & Budget Management

• Lead with Financial Savvy: Set and oversee the service department’s budget, strategically balancing revenue and expenses to boost profitability.
• Set & Achieve Ambitious Goals: Establish performance targets and track progress with a relentless focus on improvement, efficiency, and cost control.
• Strategize with Insight: Analyze financial and operational metrics, uncovering opportunities to streamline processes, reduce costs, and elevate profitability.

Inventory & Parts Collaboration

• Collaborate for Success: Work closely with the parts department to ensure every service has the right tools and parts, minimizing wait times and enhancing the guest experience.
• Optimize Inventory: Maintain precise control of service-related inventory, supporting seamless operations and reducing unnecessary costs.

Warranty & Service Contract Expertise

• Ensure Compliance & Accuracy: Manage warranty claims and service contracts meticulously, optimizing reimbursements and maintaining adherence to manufacturer guidelines.
• Protect the Business: Minimize exposure to risk by ensuring every service aligns with warranty and service contract requirements, keeping both guests and Cloninger safeguarded.

Engaging Marketing & Promotions

• Drive Service Growth: Collaborate with leadership to create dynamic marketing strategies, generating interest, increasing revenue, and bringing guests back for all their service needs.
• Measure & Adapt: Continuously monitor promotional effectiveness, fine-tuning strategies to achieve peak performance and meet dealership goals.

Technical Knowledge & Innovation

• Stay Ahead of the Curve: Keep the service team on the cutting edge by staying informed on the latest vehicle technologies, repair techniques, and tools.
• Provide Expertise & Guidance: Share your technical expertise, guiding the team and ensuring every vehicle receives superior service.

Why Cloninger?

Joining Cloninger means becoming part of a team that’s passionate about making a difference—one car, one guest, and one day at a time. We believe in continuous improvement and are committed to creating a positive, empowering environment where everyone can thrive and strive to be “Just Better” every day. If you’re ready to lead, inspire, and make an impact, this is the role for you.