Technical Operations Manager - Automotive

Location:

Cranfield, Bedfordshire

Hours:

Monday - Friday - 9:00am - 5:00pm

Salary: £40,000 per annum

Are you an experienced automotive professional looking to move away from the workshop into an office-based management role?

We're recruiting for a Technical Operations Manager to join a well-established automotive business based in Bedford. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a background in vehicle repair, body shops, windscreen fitting or the wider automotive industry who enjoys solving problems, supporting people and delivering outstanding customer service.

You’ll act as the technical expert for the business, investigating customer complaints, supporting field technicians and helping to ensure consistently high standards across technical operations.

• Investigating and resolving technical complaints relating to vehicle damage and windscreen installations.
• Liaising with customers, technicians and insurance companies to achieve positive outcomes.
• Assessing liability and recommending appropriate resolutions.
• Identifying training needs and supporting the ongoing development of technicians.
• Providing technical advice and guidance to the field-based fitting teams.
• Monitoring quality standards and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Maintaining accurate records and producing reports using internal systems.
• Supporting the wider management team with technical and operational matters.

• Previous experience within the automotive industry, such as a garage, body shop, accident repair centre, vehicle dealership or windscreen repair/replacement environment.
• Good technical understanding of vehicle construction and repair methods.
• Excellent communication skills with the confidence to handle challenging conversations and customer complaints professionally.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Good IT skills and confidence using computer systems.
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
• A calm, professional approach and the ability to prioritise a varied workload.

• £35,000 - £40,000 salary depending on experience.
• Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm (no weekends).
• Office-based role in Bedford.
• Opportunity to move into a management-focused position without carrying out hands‑on vehicle repairs.
• Join a supportive and established business where your technical expertise will make a real difference.