Placeholder

Career paths

Sales and technicians are just the tip of the iceberg. There’s much more to the operations at your local car dealership.

In the same way an automobile has many components that work in unison to get the whole vehicle on the go, car dealerships are made up of many departments that work together to keep South Africans in the driving seat of their favourite cars.

Learn about the entry requirements for the various roles that exist within car dealerships, as well as the responsibilities and key requirements for each.

Select a Career Path to learn about the Responsibilities and Requirements

  • Finance & Insurance Manager

    Finance &
    Insurance Manager (F&I)

    More >

  • Sales Executive - New Vehicles

    Sales Executive
    - New Vehicles

    More >

  • Sales Executive - Pre-Owned Vehicles

    Sales Executive
    - Pre-Owned Vehicles

    More >

  • Dealer Principal

    Dealer Principal

    More >

  • Technician

    Technician

    More >

  • Administrator

    Administrator -
    Service Advisor
    (Non-Technical)

    More >

  • Parts Supervisor

    Parts Supervisor

    More >

  • Financial & HR Manager

    Financial &
    HR Manager

    More >

Finance and Insurance Manager (F&I)

Responsibilities

  • Arrange financing for customers purchasing vehicles from the dealership
  • Provide customers with information on available finance and insurance options
  • Process all necessary paperwork for finance and insurance transactions
  • Treat Customers Fairly
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and guidelines
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with financial institutions and insurance providers
  • Work closely with the sales team to ensure a seamless customer experience
  • Provide financial and insurance training to team members as needed

Requirements

  • Recognised qualification according to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (within 6 years of first being registered with FSCA)
  • Regulatory Examination 5 (within 2 years of first being registered with FSCA)
  • National Credit Act Agent ID (before credit sales can commence)
  • Class of business (before being added to the register of Representatives held by the business)
  • Cannot be sequestrated or have been found guilty of an offence covering Honesty & Integrity
  • Strong knowledge of finance and insurance products and regulations
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and finance software programs
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills

NOTE: these are basic generic requirements, each employer will have its own set of entry requirements.

NOTE 2: For F&I, Sales Executives, Technicians – although there are qualification and experience requirements to effectively handle the job, many dealer groups have programs for people just entering the field who have a Matric Certificate, Drivers Licence and a clear criminal and credit record with an aptitude to do the job. This can be via Services Under Supervision, Apprenticeships, Sales Programs or Graduate Programs.

Sales Executive - New Vehicles

Responsibilities

  • Actively promote and sell new vehicles to potential customers
  • Build and maintain relationships with customers to ensure repeat business
  • Provide product information and demonstrations to customers
  • Negotiate and close sales deals in a professional manner
  • Meet and exceed sales targets set by the company
  • Attend sales meetings, training sessions, and workshops as required
  • Keep up to date with industry trends and market conditions

Requirements

  • Matric Certificate
  • Qualification (degree, certificate, diploma) in business, sales or related field is preferred
  • Proven track record in sales (1-3 years), ideally within the automotive industry
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong negotiation and closing abilities
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, target-driven environment
  • Knowledge of new vehicle models and features
  • Valid driver's license

NOTE: these are basic generic requirements, each employer will have its own set of entry requirements.

NOTE 2: For F&I, Sales Executives, Technicians – although there are qualification and experience requirements to effectively handle the job, many dealer groups have programs for people just entering the field who have a Matric Certificate, Drivers Licence and a clear criminal and credit record with an aptitude to do the job. This can be via Services Under Supervision, Apprenticeships, Sales Programs or Graduate Programs.

Sales Executive - Pre-Owned Vehicles

Responsibilities

  • Identify and pursue new sales opportunities
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with customers to drive sales
  • Conduct test drives and product presentations to showcase the features and benefits of pre-owned vehicles
  • Negotiate and close sales deals to meet or exceed sales targets
  • Provide excellent customer service before, during, and after the sale
  • Collaborate with the sales team and other departments to ensure seamless customer experience
  • Stay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities

Requirements

  • Matric Certificate
  • Proven experience as a Sales Executive in the automotive industry (1 -3 years), preferably in pre-owned vehicles
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong negotiation and closing skills
  • Knowledge of automotive industry trends and regulations
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Valid driver's license
  • Fluency in English and knowledge of local languages is a plus

NOTE: these are basic generic requirements, each employer will have its own set of entry requirements.

NOTE 2: For F&I, Sales Executives, Technicians – although there are qualification and experience requirements to effectively handle the job, many dealer groups have programs for people just entering the field who have a Matric Certificate, Drivers Licence and a clear criminal and credit record with an aptitude to do the job. This can be via Services Under Supervision, Apprenticeships, Sales Programs or Graduate Programs.

Dealer Principal

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement strategic business plans to achieve dealership goals and objectives
  • Lead and motivate a team of sales, service, and administrative staff to achieve high levels of performance and customer satisfaction
  • Monitor and analyse dealership performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to drive profitability
  • Oversee inventory management, pricing strategies, and promotional activities to maximise sales and profitability
  • Ensure compliance with all dealership policies, procedures, and regulations
  • Lead and manage the overall operations of the dealership
  • Develop and implement strategic plans to drive sales growth and profitability, while maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction.
  • Maintain strong relationships with OEM and other key stakeholders to ensure alignment with brand initiatives and standards.
  • Oversee the dealership's financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control measures.
  • Stay current on industry trends and best practices, continuously seeking opportunities for innovation and improvement.
  • Implement effective marketing and promotional strategies to generate leads and drive foot traffic to the dealership.
  • Ensure that all operational and compliance standards are met and maintained.

Requirements

  • Degree or diploma in a business management field
  • At least 5 years’ experience in a senior management role within the automotive industry.
  • Proven track record of successfully leading a dealership or automotive retail operation, driving sales growth and profitability.
  • Strong business acumen and financial management skills, with the ability to analyse data and make informed decisions.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities, with a solid understanding of team dynamics and how to motivate and inspire others.
  • Knowledge of customer experience best practices is highly desirable.

NOTE: these are basic generic requirements, each employer will have its own set of entry requirements.

NOTE 2: For F&I, Sales Executives, Technicians – although there are qualification and experience requirements to effectively handle the job, many dealer groups have programs for people just entering the field who have a Matric Certificate, Drivers Licence and a clear criminal and credit record with an aptitude to do the job. This can be via Services Under Supervision, Apprenticeships, Sales Programs or Graduate Programs.

Technician

Responsibilities

  • Conducting diagnostic tests and troubleshooting technical issues
  • Repairing and performing maintenance on equipment
  • Installing, configuring, and upgrading hardware and software
  • Collaborating with other team members to resolve complex technical issues
  • Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of all repairs and maintenance activities
  • Complying with safety regulations and company policies

Requirements

  • Matric Certificate or GED
  • Trade Apprenticeship (3 years) or recognised TVET occupational certificate at NQF 4
  • 2-3 years’ experience as a Technician or similar role
  • Strong knowledge of technical systems and equipment
  • Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and schematics
  • Excellent problem-solving skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

NOTE: these are basic generic requirements, each employer will have its own set of entry requirements.

NOTE 2: For F&I, Sales Executives, Technicians – although there are qualification and experience requirements to effectively handle the job, many dealer groups have programs for people just entering the field who have a Matric Certificate, Drivers Licence and a clear criminal and credit record with an aptitude to do the job. This can be via Services Under Supervision, Apprenticeships, Sales Programs or Graduate Programs.

Administrator - Service Advisor (Non-Technical)

Responsibilities

  • Answer incoming calls and emails from customers and provide prompt and efficient service
  • Schedule service appointments and ensure accurate record-keeping of customer information
  • Coordinate service requests with technicians and ensure timely completion of work
  • Provide customers with updates on the status of their service requests
  • Assist with billing and invoicing processes
  • Handle customer complaints and resolve issues in a professional and timely manner
  • Maintain accurate and organised records of service transactions
  • Assist with other administrative tasks as needed
  • Maintain excellent standards of departmental administration, such as service sheets, invoices, job cards, warranty claims, authorisations
  • Maintain customer database with contact details
  • Assist dealership in achieving industry standards of process management

Requirements

  • Matric Certificate or NQF 4 is preferred
  • Previous experience in an administrative or customer service role preferred
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to multitask and prioritise tasks effectively
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Attention to detail and strong organisational skills
  • Basic technical understanding essential
  • Local language proficiency would be an advantage
  • 2-3 years automotive service Industry experience
  • OEM product and systems knowledge
  • Basic mathematical knowledge (numeracy)
  • Ability to work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment
  • Problem resolution and decision-making
  • Ability to work in a team setting

NOTE: these are basic generic requirements, each employer will have its own set of entry requirements.

NOTE 2: For F&I, Sales Executives, Technicians – although there are qualification and experience requirements to effectively handle the job, many dealer groups have programs for people just entering the field who have a Matric Certificate, Drivers Licence and a clear criminal and credit record with an aptitude to do the job. This can be via Services Under Supervision, Apprenticeships, Sales Programs or Graduate Programs.

Parts Supervisor

Responsibilities

  • Drive organic panel sales through strategy formulation and execution.
  • Analyse quotations and sales data, providing weekly and monthly insights with actionable recommendations to increase revenue, improve cost efficiency, or enhance the control environment.
  • Ensure the HARP database is valid, accurate, and complete.
  • Monitor accurate capturing of panel transactions in the DMS, ensuring critical fields are entered correctly.
  • Actively manage the MBR (Motor Body Repairers) data submission process
  • Establish KPIs and reporting mechanisms to monitor panel sales performance (financial and non-financial) daily.
  • Conduct weekly assessments to improve control environments.
  • Implement and monitor productivity and quality standards on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.
  • Support the HARP Manager in achieving panel parts supply rate objectives.
  • Maintain a deep understanding of the HARP value chain and remain agile to market developments.
  • Conduct stakeholder SWOT analyses and develop actionable plans.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with insurance companies and motor body repairers to unlock additional sales opportunities.
  • Assist the HARP Manager in meeting financial objectives by forecasting quarterly requirements and preparing annual budgets.
  • Prepare weekly management meeting decks and reports for insurance meetings.
  • Drive operational strategic initiatives as directed by GMs and Directors.
  • Ensure HARP stakeholders’ SLAs are met.
  • Effectively manage HARP staff to ensure compliance with all internal SOPs.

Requirements

  • Matric certificate
  • Automotive industry experience, with at least 4 years in panel sales and/or insurance (vehicle accident claims/repairs)
  • Proven experience in interacting with Motor Body Repairers and insurance companies to foster collaboration and unlock value
  • Computer skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, etc.)
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work under pressure.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Inclusive leadership style with the ability to lead and inspire a team.
  • Detail-oriented and highly organised.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Strong administrative and reporting skills.
  • Results and deadline driven.
  • Strategic and logical thinker with a systems-oriented mindset.
  • Customer-centric approach.
  • Willingness to travel as required

NOTE: these are basic generic requirements, each employer will have its own set of entry requirements.

NOTE 2: For F&I, Sales Executives, Technicians – although there are qualification and experience requirements to effectively handle the job, many dealer groups have programs for people just entering the field who have a Matric Certificate, Drivers Licence and a clear criminal and credit record with an aptitude to do the job. This can be via Services Under Supervision, Apprenticeships, Sales Programs or Graduate Programs.

Financial and HR Manager

Responsibilities

  • Prepare and complete various weekly, monthly and annual financial statements.
  • Complete monthly management reports.
  • Compile management accounts, including budgets, cash flows, variance analysis and commentaries.
  • Maintain the integrity and reliability of financial data.
  • Ensure that month-end cut-offs are compliant in terms of company policies.
  • Manage the effective and timely provision of financial, statutory and sustainability reporting, including cash flows, variance analysis and commentaries.
  • Oversee accurate reconciliation of all financial records to enable verification of the validity of transactions and to take appropriate action where required.
  • Prepare and complete financial budgets for the dealership in conjunction with departmental managers and other stakeholders.
  • Ensure effective and efficient administration of operational costs within budget
  • Identify areas of financial and operational risk and escalate appropriately.
  • Supervise cash management activities.
  • Responsible for co-signatory of payments with Dealer Principal in accordance with approved policies and procedures.
  • Manage and report on progress against operational budget in liaison with Dealer Principal.
  • Analyse and interpret financial information.
  • Complete analysis of financial data to understand and compare business results.
  • Complete profit and loss analysis.
  • Complete and update daily cash flow statement to establish working capital requirements.
  • Assist in the preparation and timely filing of all internal accounting and financial reports for regulatory bodies.
  • Accurately calculate and process VAT, provisional tax etc.
  • Establish and monitor internal controls.
  • Implement corporate governance and compliance policies and processes to identify and manage risks and expose liabilities.
  • Manage and control the administration and financial processes within the dealership.
  • Conduct reconciliation of vehicles, parts, service assets, verify against accounting records and address all anomalies with senior line management.
  • Ensure effective debtors and creditors processes are in place and adhered to.
  • Identify opportunities to minimise cost and increase revenue.
  • Manage the security of all assets within direct control, i.e. cash and fixed assets, in line with approved policies, processes and procedures.
  • Attract, retain, appraise and train, coach and develop finance and administration team members.
  • Implementation and management of personnel and payroll policies, processes and procedures.
  • Administration and onboarding of new engagements, employee movements and management of terminations.
  • Workforce planning and management of the headcount budget and dealership structure.
  • Independently handling employee relations matters to ensure an optimal working environment.
  • Management of employee personnel records for dealership staff.

Requirements

  • BComm degree with Accounting NQF7+.
  • Recognised Management/ Leadership Diploma or Certificate desired.
  • 5+ years' accounting/ financial management experience in a similar environment, of which at least 2-3 years is in a management role.
  • Communication: Able to communicate professionally at multiple levels in a professional, diplomatic, polite and rational manner even when under pressure.
  • Interpersonal competence; effective at working with people.
  • Financial Management and Performance Reporting.
  • Financial and commercial acumen/ thinking.
  • Financial and Accounting Control.
  • Sound knowledge and understanding of financial, accounting and tax concepts, financial statements, trial balance, financial record keeping process etc.
  • Analysing and reconciling financial information and data, identifying auditing discrepancies and reporting on such, ensuring root cause analysis is carried out and corrective and preventive measures are implemented.
  • Problem-solving skills and sound judgement.
  • Decision making and action orientated.
  • People Management and Development skills, including effective delegation ability.
  • Time management, including the ability to respond to and resolve queries and issues in the minimum amount of time.
  • Able to work independently and under pressure.
  • Valid, unendorsed driver’s license and the ability to competently and legitimately drive.
  • Computer literacy, including proficiency in Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Word.
  • A working knowledge of the NCA, CRA, FICA and other legislation and frameworks relevant to the automotive retail industry.
  • Knowledge and ability to use relevant DMS functions.
  • Relevant experience in the automotive industry.

NOTE: these are basic generic requirements, each employer will have its own set of entry requirements.

NOTE 2: For F&I, Sales Executives, Technicians – although there are qualification and experience requirements to effectively handle the job, many dealer groups have programs for people just entering the field who have a Matric Certificate, Drivers Licence and a clear criminal and credit record with an aptitude to do the job. This can be via Services Under Supervision, Apprenticeships, Sales Programs or Graduate Programs.