Dealer Principal

Dealer Principal job vacancy in Johannesburg South.

A vacancy for an EE Dealer Principal exists at our well- known automotive dealer client based in Johannesburg South.

The Dealer Principal is responsible for the overall strategic, operational, and financial management of the Branch. This includes leading all dealership functions across three sites to ensure profitability, compliance, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence.

The role requires a strong focus on leadership, business development, performance management, and ensuring that all departments — including Sales, Service, Parts, and Administration — achieve their targets in line with company objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Management
  • Provide strategic leadership and direction to all dealership departments.
  • Foster a high-performance culture through effective people management and team development.
  • Oversee recruitment, training, coaching, and performance management of staff across the 3 sites.
  • Ensure alignment with company values, policies, and procedures.
• Operational Oversight
  • Oversee daily dealership operations, ensuring smooth coordination between departments.
  • Ensure compliance with manufacturer standards, corporate governance, and legal requirements.
  • Maintain dealership facilities and infrastructure to reflect brand standards.
  • Implement operational efficiencies and process improvements across the multifranchise.
• Financial Management
  • Manage and monitor the dealership’s financial performance, including revenue, expenses, and profitability.
  • Develop and manage annual budgets and forecasts for all dealerships.
  • Analyse management accounts and financial reports to ensure the business meets performance targets.
• Sales & Marketing Management
  • Drive vehicle sales performance across all brands.
  • Develop and execute sales strategies to increase market share and customer retention.
  • Ensure marketing and promotional campaigns align with group strategy and brand guidelines.
  • Oversee F&I and aftersales performance to ensure revenue diversification.
• Customer Experience & Brand Management
  • Maintain exceptional levels of customer service across all touchpoints.
  • Ensure adherence to OEM standards for CSI and brand representation.
  • Oversee the resolution of escalated customer issues and implement preventive measures.
• Compliance & Governance
  • Ensure compliance with all MIBCO, OEM, financial, and HR legislative requirements.
  • Uphold ethical business practices and ensure staff adhere to company policies.
  • Oversee internal audits and implement corrective actions as required.
• Reporting & Communication
  • Provide regular operational and financial reports to the Regional Executive and Head Office.
  • Communicate strategic updates, targets, and initiatives effectively to all teams.
  • Attend regional and OEM meetings as required.

Requirements:

• Matric (essential); Tertiary qualification in Business Management or related field (advantageous).
• Minimum 8–10 years experience in the motor industry, with at least 5 years.
• Proven track record as a Dealer Principal/General Manager/Branch Manager/New Vehicle Sales Manager
• Strong understanding of dealership operations including Sales, Service, Parts, F&I, and Admin.
• Valid South African driver’s license and clear criminal/credit record.

Key Competencies:

• Strong leadership and decision-making ability.
• Excellent business acumen and financial literacy.
• Proven ability to manage multi-site operations.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Customer-centric mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.

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