Job Description

The Body Shop Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, performance, and profitability of the body shop operations across the dealership (or assigned locations) within the auto group. This role ensures high-quality repairs, strong customer satisfaction, efficient workflow, and consistent processes aligned with group standards. The Body Shop Manager leads staff development, controls costs, manages insurer relationships, and drives continuous improvement to support the auto group’s growth objectives. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership * Oversee day-to-day body shop operations, ensuring repairs are completed accurately, safely, and on schedule * Establish and enforce standardized processes and procedures across all body shop locations * Monitor workflow, cycle time, parts coordination, and technician productivity * Ensure compliance with OEM standards, insurance requirements, and safety regulations Financial Performance * Manage body shop P&L, including gross profit, labor efficiency, parts margins, and expense control * Develop and execute strategies to improve profitability and reduce rework, waste, and delays * Monitor estimates, supplements, and repair orders for accuracy and profitability * Prepare and review monthly performance reports with leadership Insurance & Vendor Relations * Serve as the primary point of contact for insurance companies and DRP partners * Ensure estimates and supplements are properly documented and approved * Maintain strong working relationships with vendors, suppliers, and sublet providers Customer Experience * Ensure a high level of customer satisfaction from initial estimate through vehicle delivery * Address and resolve customer concerns or escalations promptly and professionally * Monitor CSI scores and online reviews; implement improvement plans when needed Team Leadership & Development * Hire, train, coach, and develop estimators, technicians, painters, and support staff * Set clear performance expectations and conduct regular performance reviews * Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement * Support cross-training and succession planning within the body shop team Quality Control & Compliance * Ensure all repairs meet manufacturer, insurance, and safety standards * Conduct final quality checks prior to vehicle delivery * Maintain a clean, organized, and OSHA-compliant work environment Strategic & Group Alignment * Collaborate with Fixed Ops, Service, Parts, and Sales leadership across the auto group * Support group initiatives, process improvements, and growth strategies * Provide insights and recommendations for equipment, staffing, and capacity planning Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) * Gross profit and net profitability * Cycle time and repair efficiency * Customer satisfaction (CSI) * Technician productivity and labor efficiency * Estimate accuracy and supplement ratio * Rework and comeback rates Qualifications Required * 3-5+ years of experience in automotive body shop operations * 2+ years of management or supervisory experience * Strong understanding of estimating systems * Knowledge of insurance DRP processes and OEM repair standards * Proven ability to manage teams and drive financial performance * 2 years working as an estimator Preferred * Multi-location or auto group experience * I-CAR certifications or equivalent * Strong analytical and reporting skills Skills & Competencies * Leadership and people development * Financial acumen and operational discipline * Strong communication and conflict-resolution skills * Organization, time management, and attention to detail * Ability to balance customer satisfaction with profitability

Job Tags

Similar Jobs