Part Manager

Parts Manager – Volkswagen of Santa Fe Position Title: Parts Manager Department: Parts Department Reports To: Fixed Operations Director / General Manager Position Summary We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Parts Manager with a strong background in Volkswagen and/or European automotive dealerships. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the parts department, including inventory management, wholesale and retail sales, profitability, customer satisfaction, manufacturer compliance, and team leadership. This individual must possess a deep understanding of European automotive parts operations, inventory control, and dealership best practices. Key Responsibilities * Manage daily operations of the parts department to ensure efficiency, profitability, and exceptional customer service. * Maintain appropriate inventory levels to support service, collision, retail, and wholesale operations while minimizing obsolescence. * Develop and execute inventory strategies, including stock orders, emergency orders, returns, and phase-in/phase-out programs. * Monitor and improve department gross profit, expense control, inventory turns, and overall financial performance. * Ensure compliance with Volkswagen and manufacturer policies, procedures, warranty requirements, and parts retention standards. * Work closely with the Service Manager and technicians to maintain high levels of technician productivity and parts availability. * Analyze sales trends, inventory reports, lost sales, and stocking parameters to optimize inventory investment. * Manage and develop wholesale parts business opportunities within the market. * Lead, coach, train, and develop parts department personnel to achieve performance goals. * Maintain accurate inventory records and conduct regular inventory counts and reconciliations. * Oversee warranty parts processing, returns, and manufacturer audits. * Ensure proper handling, storage, security, and organization of all inventory. * Maintain a safe, clean, and professional work environment. * Collaborate with dealership leadership to establish and achieve departmental objectives. Qualifications * Minimum of 3-5 years of Parts Manager experience in a Volkswagen dealership or European automotive dealership environment. * Strong knowledge of Volkswagen parts systems, cataloging, warranty procedures, and manufacturer programs preferred. * Experience with European brands such as Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, or similar is highly desirable. * Proven track record of increasing parts sales, profitability, and inventory performance. * Strong understanding of inventory management, stocking groups, inventory turns, and obsolescence control. * Experience with dealership management systems such as CDK, Dealertrack, Reynolds & Reynolds, or similar platforms. * Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills. * Ability to analyze financial statements and departmental performance metrics. * Strong customer service and relationship-building skills. * Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record. Preferred Skills * Volkswagen Parts Certification or equivalent manufacturer training. * Experience managing wholesale parts operations. * Strong understanding of fixed operations performance metrics. * Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools. * Experience with inventory management software and manufacturer ordering systems. Compensation & Benefits * Competitive salary plus performance-based incentives. * Health, dental, and vision insurance. * Paid vacation and holidays. * 401(k) with company match. * Professional development and manufacturer training opportunities. * Career advancement within a growing dealership organization. What We're Looking For The successful candidate is a results-driven leader who understands the unique demands of European automotive parts operations. They possess strong inventory management skills, a commitment to customer service, and the ability to lead a high-performing team while maximizing department profitability and supporting dealership growth.