Job reference - 1469917

• Knowledge of the automotive collision repair industry or connectivity within this sector required
• Strong commercial acumen and relationship building skills essential
• Building the operational and commercial infrastructure of the Fix Auto network

About Fix Auto New Zealand 
Fix Auto NZ is the newly established Master Franchise with a nationwide mission. The New Zealand collision repair industry, traditionally made up of around 450 independent operators, is undergoing seismic change, threatening the survival of local repairers.

Our vision is to empower these independents by uniting them under the globally recognised Fix Auto brand. By creating a strong, high-quality franchise network, we will give our members a collective voice, commercial leverage, and operational excellence, enabling them to compete and thrive in a rapidly evolving market.

This is a rare opportunity to shape an industry. As the inaugural General Manager, you will be the architect and builder of this network, responsible for its strategic development, franchisee recruitment, and national representation from the ground up.


The Role 
The primary purpose of this role is to establish, develop, and lead the Fix Auto network across New Zealand.
 
This is a foundational business development and leadership position focused on:

• Recruiting quality franchisees nationwide
• Building the operational and commercial infrastructure of the network
• Ensuring long-term profitability and sustainability in a competitive landscape

You will be a hands-on leader, with high autonomy and the opportunity to grow and lead a dedicated support team as the network expands.
 
 
Key Responsibilities
1. Franchise Network Development & Recruitment

• Develop and execute a strategic national plan to identify, approach, and recruit independent collision repair businesses into the Fix Auto network
• Build and nurture trust-based relationships with independent repairer owners
• Act as the credible face of Fix Auto, effectively communicating the value proposition and competitive advantages of joining the network 

2. Commercial Negotiation & Partnership Building

• Negotiate and secure nationwide Preferred Supplier Agreements (PSAs) with insurers, fleet operators, leasing companies, rental car firms, corporate clients, OEMs, MTA, and IMVIA
• Lead negotiations with new vehicle distributors to achieve official repair accreditation for the network
• Leverage Fix Network's global leadership to secure purchasing discounts with key suppliers (equipment, parts, paint, consumables) 

3. Strategic Leadership & Advocacy

• Develop and implement the overall business strategy for the Master Franchise, aligned with global standards and shareholder objectives
• Represent Fix Auto NZ at industry conferences, forums, and media engagements
• Lobby government bodies on issues affecting the collision repair industry and small business
• Analyse market trends and competitor activity to develop strategic initiatives 

4. Operational & Brand Excellence

• Develop New Zealand-specific operations manuals, standards, and quality assurance protocols
• Oversee the roll-out of premium Fix Auto branding, signage, and facility upgrade standards
• Provide high-level consulting and advisory support to franchisees to drive best practice adoption 

5. Business Management & Team Leadership

• Initially operate as a hands-on leader with high autonomy
• Recruit, build, and lead a small support team as the network grows
• Manage the P&L for the Master Franchise entity, ensuring cost control and profitability
• Establish KPIs, set budgets, and report regularly to the Board
• Develop and execute a first 100-day plan and annual business plan with clear accountability

 
About You - Person Specification

• Deep Industry Credibility: Extensive hands-on experience in the NZ collision repair industry is highly preferred (e.g., former repairer, Workshop Manager, insurance sector manager, Estimator). In the absence of this, strong commercial leadership within an automotive environment is required. 
• Technical Understanding: Ability to knowledgeably discuss repair methodologies, equipment (chassis alignment, spray booths), paint systems, and industry terminology either through previous collision repair industry experience or allied sectors where you have knowledge of these operations, such as industry advocacy, leasing, national distributors. 
• Proven Business Development Track Record: Ideally in partnership development, franchising, or network building within automotive/collision repair. 
• Commercial & Negotiation Acumen: Strong history of negotiating high-value commercial contracts. 
• Strategic Mindset: Proven ability to develop and execute long-term strategic plans in a complex, competitive environment.

 
Essential Skills & Attributes

• Exceptional relationship builder - able to influence and earn trust across workshops, boardrooms, and government.
• Resilience and tenacity to overcome scepticism and stay focused on the long-term vision.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, tailored to diverse audiences.
• A self-starter who can operate independently and inspire a future team.
• Strong financial literacy and P&L management skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively nationwide, with potential for international travel.

 
Desirable Attributes

• Existing strong network across the NZ collision repair industry, insurance sector, and automotive supply chain
• Experience working in or with a franchise system
• Experience in lobbying or government relations
• Formal qualifications in business management, commerce, or a relevant trade

 
The Challenge and Rewards

• The opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up
• A pivotal leadership role with high autonomy and strategic influence
• A strong executive level salaried remuneration package and benefits
• The chance to reshape an industry and support independent businesses nationwide

How to apply
Click the apply now section and upload your resume. The closing date for applications is Wednesday the 4th of March.
 
Fix Auto New Zealand have access to all applications made through Automotive Employment NZ.
 
A job description is also available by emailing keith@automotiveemployment.co.nz or russell@automotiveemployment.co.nz
 
Please also feel free to call for a confidential chat - Russell Phillips on 027 479 0000 or Keith Naude on 021 271 3202.