Meet Our Assistant Service Manager, Shaun
Shaun Shares his Success Story for National Apprenticeship Week!
What was your apprenticeship in, and how did it influence your career direction at Lloyd Motor Group?
“I started my career as an Apprentice Parts Advisor at Lloyd Carlisle BMW after leaving school. At the time we had a small team, with Barry Matthews as my Senior Parts Advisor and Gary Bingley as the Parts Manager.
“As part of my apprenticeship, I entered the 2-year BMW Parts Apprentice programme. This was distance learning with week-long visits to the BMW training facility (which at that time was in Bracknell). I also went once a week to Carlisle college to train on motor mechanics, to get a better understanding of the technical side of motor vehicles. I passed the City and Guilds Motor Engineering course with a Distinction, and came 2nd in the National BMW Parts Apprentice of the Year contest.
“To help with career progression, I then moved up to Lloyd Carlisle Bodyshop. I was one of the first in the team when the Bodyshop was on Millbrook Road, helping with parts and also learning customer contact roles and estimating repairs. I was later promoted to Assistant Manager where I enjoyed building the department up, and was involved with the movement to the new customer-made facility at Parkhouse.
“I then moved back to Lloyd BMW as the Assistant Service Manager when an opportunity arose, adding to my experience of learning in all Aftersales departments”.
What first made you want to pursue your Parts Advisor apprenticeship?
“At the time of leaving school, I was a bit of a petrolhead, so I was really interested in working for BMW. I applied for the position as Apprentice Parts Advisor at Lloyd Carlisle BMW, and the rest is history!”
What is your favourite part of your current role?
“I’ve always considered myself as a people person, so I really enjoy the interaction with our customers and staff. I also naturally enjoy all of the challenges the role brings, problem solving, and helping people”.
What do you enjoy about being part of Lloyd Motor Group?
“Lloyd Motor Group has grown off the back of looking after its customers and putting them first. I enjoy passing on the ‘Lloyd Way’ of doing things to customers and staff”.
Can you give any words of wisdom to people who are looking to pursue an apprenticeship at Lloyd Motor Group?
“The BMW/MINI Apprentice programme has developed, and we have seen great success in all departments, with progression and career movement internally. Lloyd Motor Group focus on the career development of young people and promotion from within, so you’re definitely in good hands”.
Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to kickstart your career, and Shaun success story is a shining example of the different doors that an apprenticeship can open. Learn more about apprenticeships at Lloyd Motor Group, or browse our current career vacancies below.
