Automotive Service Director
European Specialty Repair | Growth-Focused Leadership Role
Why This Role Is Special (The Highlights Up Front)
$170k+ On-Target Earnings (base + GP-based bonus)
Ownership-level influence without ownership-level risk
Real authority over operations, marketing, and SOPs
Significant unused capacity = immediate growth opportunity
Established, profitable shop ($3.5M+ annually)
Succession potential for the right long-term leader
Strong benefits from day one (3 weeks PTO, 401k, insurance)
The Opportunity
A well-established, high-performing European automotive repair operation is seeking a Service Director to step in as the true operational leader of the business.
This is not a glorified service writer role — this is a seat at the leadership table. The owner is intentionally stepping back from daily operations and wants a seasoned professional to take the reins, bring structure, drive accountability, and unlock the shop's full potential.
The facility has already expanded. The bays are built. The team is in place. What's missing is a single leader to align people, process, and performance.
What This Service Director Will Own
Full oversight of day-to-day operations
Increased throughput and car count across two buildings
Development, documentation, and enforcement of SOPs
Leadership of the Service Manager and Business Manager
Marketing strategy ownership and vendor management
Support on the service drive when needed
Accountability, execution, and results
This role replaces the owner's daily involvement — meaning real authority, not micromanagement.
The Team You'll Be Leading
8 technicians
3 service advisors
Dedicated parts and business management support
A high-volume service writer who needs leadership, not babysitting
A shop that's grown fast and now needs operational maturity
The Ideal Candidate
6+ years of automotive service or operations management experience
Background in either dealership or high-performing independent shops
European vehicle experience is a plus, but leadership skill matters more
Comfortable holding people accountable and setting standards
Strategic thinker who also executes
This is a role for someone who wants to build something, not just maintain it.
Compensation & Benefits
$170k+ OTE (base salary + GP-based bonus)
Medical, Dental, Vision (80% employer-paid)
401(k) with match (details being finalized)
3 weeks PTO starting day one
6 paid holidays
Relocation assistance available
Stable ownership, clear expectations, and room to grow
The Bottom Line
This is a rare opportunity to step into a profitable, growing European repair operation that's ready for its next chapter — with real leadership authority, strong financial upside, and a potential path to ownership for the right person.
If you've been waiting for a role where your operational skill actually matters, this is it.
Automotive Service Director • Seaside, CA, US