General Manager, Automotive Dealerships (Dealer Principal)

RMA Group, headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand, is a multi-sector group with over 9000 employees and an operational presence in 14 countries. For almost 40 years, we have developed enduring partnerships to support the needs of our clients, underpinned by the core values of Innovation, Integrity and Endurance. Through its various businesses included RMA Automotive, Global Fleet Sales, Comin Asia and Express Food Group, RMA Group has established itself as the partner of choice for leading automotive, equipment, services, and food brands in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Purpose of the Role

Reporting to the Automotive MD of Laos, the General Manager, Automotive Dealerships (Dealer Principal) is responsible for the overall management of Ford operations in Vientiane, Laos - known as "Lao Ford City". This will involve managing the Sales and After-sales function, to ensure that customers needs are met and company profit is maximize through the promotion, sales and distribution of the company's range of vehicles, services and parts.

The Lao vehicle market is growing, with good sales and aftersales opportunities, and future development prospects. As such, we require a dynamic and experienced general manager to lead the Ford operational team in Laos to drive the business forward whilst ensuring the highest levels of customer service.

Main responsibilities

Sales & Marketing

• Drive daily sales targets and customer engagement, by ensuring that customers are attended to professionally at all times
• Maintain high service standards and professional standards of appearance
• Lead monthly management reviews and performance planning
• Support sales closure and manage trade-in appraisals
• Organize staff training and coordinate marketing campaigns
• Manage dealership layout and optimize vehicle presentation
• Maintain market intelligence by assessing the market and competitive landscape, and make adjustments accordingly

Aftersales

• Ensure that target objectives are monitored by on-going, which will include monitoring of - the P&L statements, daily & weekly operating controls, system information, industry reports and public domain information and manufacturers composite figures
• Apply industry and manufacturer data to drive performance improvements, with the appropriate corrective actions taken as needed

Technical, Financial, and HR responsibilities

• Uphold brand standards and ensure effective communication with customers.
• Maintain high client satisfaction and manage complaints professionally if they occur, with corrective actions put in place and monitored
• Track market trends and maintain an updated customer database
• Set and manage annual budgets and financial forecasts
• Oversee inventory and debtor management systems
• Analyze departmental financial performance on a regular basis
• Lead staffing, development, and training initiatives
• Mentor local managers and build a leadership pipeline for effective succession planning
• Engage with professional development and industry associations.

Background and experience

• Bachelors degree or higher in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field
• 10+ years experience in automotive dealership management on a senior level
• Strong understanding of automotive retail industry practices
• Proven P&L management and business acumen
• Effective team leadership and negotiation capabilities
• Fluency in English

This role is open to Laotians with international leadership experience within the automotive industry, as well as expatriates with relevant experience within South East Asia (ideally).

Additional details

• The role is based in Vientiane, Laos, with LFC Co., Ltd.the official Ford distributor
• Approximately 10% travel is required, including regional and global trips
• The position includes the responsibility of developing a local deputy to ensure long-term operational sustainability through local talent.

RMA Group is an equal opportunity employer, with a diverse group of colleagues globally representing different cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. Our values of Innovation, Integrity, and Endurance are embedded in what we do, and we welcome applicants who are committed to respecting diversity of thought and living our values on a day-to-day basis.