Garage Manager (Service Station Manager)

Garage managers are responsible for the total organization of a garage or service station, including the supervision and control of personnel as well as the retail operations surrounding the business.

One of the most common sites next to the roadside is a garage or service station providing fuel and other services for motorists. Garages or service stations are owned and operated by individual franchisee owners, but in most instances the land is controlled by the big oil companies. A franchise or retail agreement manages this relationship and the garage or service station manager is employed to run the business.

Garage managers may be involved in the general management of employees in cooperation with the different supervisors in charge of the various departments. Service is an important aspect of running a successful garage, a garage manager is directly responsible for retaining the goodwill of the public by ensuring satisfactory service and creating and maintaining a sense of shared purpose amongst the garage staff.

Most garages today have introduced additional revenue streams such as convenience stores situated on the garage premises. This change of has meant that garage managers are required to have additional merchandising and management skills previously not required at a traditional garage. Clients expect to be able to fill-up a car and purchase convenience items such as bread and milk or a quick meal. Established retailers and restaurant chains are partnering with oil companies and service station businesses to capitalise on that convenience and increase their market share.

Personal Requirements

organisational ability
leadership qualities
be able to communicate well and get along with people
present a well-groomed appearance
be objective and fair
be able to motivate others towards a common goal and be interested in their work
good business sense
understand accounting procedures

How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Matric with previous garage management experience.

What to Study

Degree: Some garage managers study business management at university - RU, UWC, UNISA, UFH, UFS, NMMU, UKZN, UCT.
Diploma: Appropriate Diplomas in Management, e.g. CPUT, CUT, DUT, VUT and TVET colleges.
Most garage managers have been promoted into their jobs from positions with less authority.

Employment