New team drives barnstaple business forward

A Barnstaple car retailer has expanded its aftersales team to meet the growing demands of its customers.

Barnstaple Volkswagen has recruited eight new specialists enhancing its customer service, including Aftersales Manager, Glenn Hopkins.

Glenn, 26, has successfully achieved the managerial role after only eight years in the automotive industry.

Having begun his career as a mechanic, Glenn swiftly developed his skills to technical and advisory roles before progressing to managerial roles within the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle division at Silver Street Taunton.

Glenn’s latest position at Barnstaple Volkswagen, part of the Silver Street Automotive Group, will focus on developing the customer service procedures to ensure a consistently high level of service is delivered at all times.

He said: “ This is a great opportunity and I am looking forward to the new challenge.

“My first task will be getting to know all the customers and staff plus coordinating and implementing a training programme for our new team members.”

The new recruits include technicians, Richard Adams, Rob Box and Dorian-Wolf Kiss, service administrator, Nathan Beresford, service advisor Steve Kidd, showroom host Bridget Orrell and valetor Jamie Boon.

Barnstaple Volkswagen Brand Manager, Andrew Smale, said: “We have had a very successful start to 2010 and our new recruits, led by Glenn’s expertise, will enable us to enhance our service and continue to drive the business forward. “

The Barnstaple Volkswagen retailer is presently recruiting for a parts technician and sales staff. Suitable individuals can contact 0844 2479219.

Dedicated aftersales manager reaches 30 year milestone

Paul Kinge has dedicated his entire working career to the same employer, putting his loyalty down to the family friendly atmosphere.

The aftersales manager from Hook, joined Martins Volkswagen in 1980 as an technician apprentice and is now celebrating his 30 years of service.

He was recently presented with a Volkswagen Gold Pin, which are only awarded to an elite group of individuals each year, in recognition of his exceptional service to the brand.

As customer demand increased, Paul specialised in commercial vehicles and was instrumental in the launch and success of the stand alone van centre, which opened in 1999.

Paul’s expertise and knowledge has developed Martins Van Centre into an award-winning business, including the Volkswagen Customer Service Excellence Award for the third consecutive year.

Speaking of his 30 year milestone, Paul said: “I have always enjoyed my time at Martins Van Centre is it really interesting to see how the range has evolved and how the industry has changed.

“Having grew up on a farm, from a family with a strong presence in the building industry, I quickly realised outside labour was not for me. Opting for a career in automotive mechanics I have never looked back.

“Martins Van Centre has continually supported my development and has always remained true to its roots. The family approach has made the job very enjoyable and is why I have remained loyal to the business.”

Head of business at Martins Van Centre, Andrew Lean, said: “Paul is a real asset to the team and one that both staff and customers have confidence in for all their commercial vehicle concerns.

Thirty years is a real achievement and we fully appreciate his devotion and hardwork.”

TRIPLE APPOINTMENT BOOSTS RETAILER

A Workington car retailer has increased its service and expertise with the expansion of the company’s aftersales team.

Walkingshaw Volkswagen has appointed Mike Gill as its new after sales manager; he will now lead the twelve strong team.

With almost 25 years’ experience in the automotive industry with Volkswagen, Mike will be passing on his knowledge to Walkingshaw’s two other new staff, service advisor Kerry Duthie and technician Craig Tremble.

Mike began his career in his native Cumbria in 1986 as a car valetor before climbing the career ladder with Volkswagen in the north west of England.

His experience as parts advisor, service advisor, service manager and aftersales manager has given Mike a clear understanding of motorists’ needs, something he plans to pass on to customer and staff alike.

He said: “I’m thrilled to be taking this role and working back in Cumbria. I’m looking forward to continuing the high quality of customer service associated with Walkingshaw.

“The company has a superb track record with customers, and is renowned as being a great place to work at.”

Kerry (23) from Frizington has gained customer service experience in her previous role as a home carer while Craig (29) from Workington has experienced the motor trade as a technician.

Walkingshaw’s brand manager, Andy Walkingshaw, said: “Mike has a superb track record in the automotive industry and brings with him a vast amount of brand awareness gained through experience across all retail sectors.

“The appointment of Mike, Kerry and Craig will only strengthen the company and provide a bank of knowledge and superb customer service for everyone associated with the site.”