Bus & Truck Workshop Manager

Job Description Bus & Truck Workshop Manager Location: Portlaoise, Co. LaoisJob Type: Full-Time, PermanentReports To: Operations Director / General Manager   Role Overview The Bus & Truck Workshop Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a busy commercial vehicle workshop specialising in buses, trucks, and fleet vehicles. This role ensures the efficient, safe, and compliant maintenance and repair of vehicles while leading a team of technicians and support staff to deliver high-quality service, minimise downtime, and meet operational targets. The successful candidate will combine strong technical knowledge with proven leadership, planning, and customer-focused skills.   Key Responsibilities Workshop Operations Manage the day-to-day operation of the workshop, ensuring repairs and servicing are completed efficiently and on schedule Plan and allocate work to technicians based on skill levels, priorities, and deadlines Monitor productivity, efficiency, and turnaround times Ensure vehicles meet CVRT standards and Road Safety Authority (RSA) compliance requirements People Management Lead, motivate, and develop a team of mechanics, fitters, apprentices, and workshop support staff Conduct performance reviews, training needs analysis, and toolbox talks Manage staff rota, attendance, and disciplinary processes in line with company policy Health, Safety & Compliance Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety legislation and company procedures Maintain a safe, clean, and organised workshop environment Carry out risk assessments and ensure proper use of tools and equipment Quality & Customer Service Maintain high standards of workmanship and quality control Act as a key point of contact for fleet customers, drivers, and internal stakeholders Handle technical queries, job updates, and issue resolution professionally Financial & Stock Control Control workshop costs, labour hours, and consumable usage Manage parts ordering, inventory levels, and supplier relationships Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and reporting on workshop performance Administration & Reporting Ensure accurate job cards, service records, and compliance documentation Use workshop management systems to track jobs, hours, and KPIs Provide regular reports to senior management   Key Skills & Experience Essential Proven experience in managing a commercial vehicle, bus, or truck workshop Strong technical knowledge of HGV/PSV maintenance and diagnostics Experience leading and developing workshop teams Solid understanding of CVRT, RSA, and Irish transport regulations Strong organisational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills Desirable HGV / PSV Trade Qualification or equivalent Experience working with fleet operators or public service vehicles Familiarity with workshop management software CPC or transport compliance knowledge   Personal Attributes Hands-on leadership style with the ability to lead by example Calm and decisive under pressure Strong communication and interpersonal skills Customer-focused mindset High attention to detail and safety awareness   What We Offer Competitive salary package (commensurate with experience) Stable, long-term role in a well-established operation Opportunity to lead and shape workshop performance Ongoing training and professional development Supportive management team and modern facilities