The automotive sector is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by technological innovation and an increasing focus on sustainability. L'workshop of 2025 will be very different from the traditional one and the role of the automotive service manager will become central to managing and coordinating this change.
In a context where electric, connected and autonomous vehicles will be increasingly widespread, the automotive service manager will in fact be a key figure in ensuring the operational efficiency of workshops, the customer satisfaction and the compliance with environmental regulations.
With the increase of electric and hybrid vehiclesworkshops will have to equip themselves with specific tools for diagnosing and repairing batteries and electric propulsion systems. In addition, vehicles will be increasingly connected to digital networks and generate a huge amount of data. Therefore, it will be crucial to be able to manage the analysis of data from vehicles, using it to improve preventive maintenance, optimise intervention times and customise services for customers.
Thanks to theartificial intelligence and to theInternet of Things (IoT), it will be possible to constantly monitor the condition of vehicles and calculate the need for intervention to avoid breakdowns. The automotive service manager will be responsible for training staff and updating equipment to handle these new technologies.
The role of the automotive service manager in the workshop of the future
The automotive service manager must be a point of reference within the workshop, but also a technology expert, able to manage both the operational requirements that the customer expectations. Let's see in detail the main responsibilities of this figure:
- Operational and organisational management
The automotive service manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of the workshop, coordinates the technical staff, and ensures that intervention times are met by optimising the use of resources. He/she must ensure that repairs and maintenance are carried out according to the quality standards required by car manufacturers and current regulations.
- Staff training and refresher courses
As vehicles and technologies evolve, workshop personnel must be constantly trained and updated. The automotive service manager is responsible for organising training courses for technicians, ensuring that they are prepared to handle new technologies and new types of vehicles. He is also responsible for introducing innovative tools and equipment that facilitate workshop work.
- Customer service and loyalty
Customer focus is crucial. The automotive service manager must ensure that the service is responsive to customer needs, reducing waiting times and offering customised solutions. Customer loyalty is closely linked to the ability to offer a professional, quick service in line with expectations, guaranteeing transparency on costs and the ability to monitor the status of repairs in real time.
- Environmental Sustainability
The automotive service manager must strive to reduce the workshop's environmental impact by implementing sustainable management practices, such as recycling materials, using renewable energy and reducing waste. He/she must also ensure that workshops comply with environmental regulations.
- Technological innovation and digitisation
The implementation of digital solutions that improve operational efficiency is imperative, such as the adoption of software for managing bookings and repairs, the use of augmented reality to support technicians in fault diagnosis, and the use of digital platforms for customer relationship management.
In this new scenario, the automotive service manager is a key figure, with the task of integrating emerging technologies into service and maintenance processes, ensuring that workshops are ready to meet the new challenges of the automotive sector. To become one, it is essential to have a solid professional training behind you.
The ITS Move Academy course in Automotive Service is structured to provide comprehensive training in vehicle maintenance and repair, integrating advanced technical skills with a focus on customer reception and after-sales services. Through lectures with industry professionals and internships in companies, students acquire in-depth knowledge of mechanical, electrical and electronic systems, using advanced diagnostic tools (ADAS).
Author of the article
ITS MOVE - Editor
