Overview
Dealer Principal Jobs in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa at Kia Umhlanga
Title: Dealer Principal
Company: Kia Umhlanga
Location: Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Company Description Team members work in a dynamic, performance-driven environment with opportunities to contribute to dealership growth and customer loyalty.
Role Description The Dealer Principal role is a full-time, on-site leadership role responsible for overseeing all dealership operations, including sales, finance, service, and parts. This role involves setting and monitoring performance targets, ensuring compliance with manufacturer standards, and maintaining strong relationships with customers, staff, and the OEMs. The Dealer Principal will manage budgets and financial performance, drive business planning initiatives, and guide the leadership team to achieve profitability and growth. Daily responsibilities include reviewing operational reports, monitoring customer satisfaction levels, supporting aftersales performance, and coaching managers to sustain a high-performing, customer-centric culture. The role also requires visible presence on the showroom floor and in the service area to support staff and ensure consistent execution of dealership standards.
Qualifications
- Strong business planning and strategic management skills, including the ability to analyze performance data and implement growth initiatives.
- Proven experience in dealer management, preferably within an automotive franchise environment, with the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.
- Solid finance and budgeting skills, including understanding of dealership financial statements, profitability drivers, and cost control.
- Demonstrated focus on customer satisfaction, with experience implementing customer service standards and monitoring feedback.
- Knowledge of aftersales operations, including service, parts, and warranty processes, and strategies to improve retention and revenue.
- Relevant tertiary qualification in business, finance, or automotive management, or equivalent experience.
- Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to build collaborative relationships with staff and OEM partners.
- Track record of achieving sales and profit targets in a competitive market; prior experience as a Dealer Principal or senior dealership manager is advantageous.