Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
References
Timeline
Generic

Chris Sjodin

Melbourne,VIC

Summary

National Operations Manager with expertise in team development and insurer relationship management. Demonstrated success in overseeing daily operations and executing strategic plans that align with insurer and customer needs while enhancing company profitability. Recognised for improving operational efficiency and reducing costs through streamlined processes. Strong problem-solving and leadership capabilities support a commitment to achieving organisational objectives.

Overview

37
37
years of professional experience

Work History

National Operations Manager

Drive Group
05.2022 - 10.2024
  • Built effective teams and streamlined processes to achieve budgetary targets.
  • Contributed to the expansion from one site in Canberra in 2022 to 18 sites nationwide in 2024.
  • Directly employed 50 new staff in Victoria through networking and existing relationships.
  • Implemented systems and processes, ensuring new sites achieved full production within weeks of opening.
  • Collaborated with insurers to meet key metrics, including customer satisfaction levels, and Google score average of 4.7.
  • Managed capacity and volume targets at each site to maintain insurer and customer demands.
  • Maintained a close working relationship with the insurers.

Victorian Operations State Manager

AMA Group (Gemini Accident Repair Centres Australia)
06.2013 - 10.2021
  • Managed profit and loss for 50 sites across Victoria, overseeing an $300 million budget.
  • Led and developed a team of 800 employees, enhancing recruitment and retention strategies.
  • Monitored daily performance to ensure alignment with budgetary targets.
  • Collaborated with insurers to maintain consistent achievement of KPIs.
  • Drove quality and customer satisfaction initiatives across all sites.
  • Supported growth from one site in Victoria in 2013 to over 50 sites in 2019.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to increase customer satisfaction ratings.
  • Traveled interstate to assist other AMA locations in meeting performance targets.

World Class Accident Repair Centres (a division of IAG: Insurance Australia Group)
, Victoria
03.2003 - 05.2013
  • Oversaw accident repair division, managing >16,000 vehicle repairs annually across two sites.
  • Implemented Lean Manufacturing principles, driving operational efficiency and profitability.
  • Reduced average repair costs by nearly 40%, transitioning from an annual $3 million loss to profit.
  • Introduced quality production processes that significantly minimized rework rates.
  • Established performance-based pay scheme, resulting in a 50% increase in production.
  • Developed employee retention programs to enhance workforce stability.
  • Significantly reduced WorkCover insurance premiums through safety committee and ongoing training initiatives.
  • Negotiated new pricing structures with suppliers, achieving substantial reductions in overall expenses.
  • Successfully negotiated two EBAs with the AMWU.
  • Introduced recycling and water/waterless initiatives, reducing general waste costs by nearly 20%.
  • Set up international recruitment for the sites.

Regional Manager

Woods Accident Repair Centres
01.1988 - 01.2003
  • Managed operations for five of 20 Woods Group sites, ensuring optimal profitability.
  • Oversaw staff management, work allocation, and performance monitoring across all locations.
  • Directed P&L management to maintain financial health and accountability.
  • Ensured compliance with processes, quality control, and customer satisfaction standards.
  • Monitored OH&S regulations and implemented site maintenance protocols.
  • Adapted to dynamic challenges within a fast-paced operational environment.

Skills

  • National operations leadership in automotive and repair
  • Insurer relationship management
  • Supply chain negotiation expertise
  • International and local recruitment
  • Lean manufacturing implementation
  • Staff training and retention systems
  • Workforce engagement and team building
  • Service centre setup and expansion strategies
  • OH&S leadership and cost-saving initiatives

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

National Operations Manager

Drive Group
05.2022 - 10.2024

Victorian Operations State Manager

AMA Group (Gemini Accident Repair Centres Australia)
06.2013 - 10.2021

World Class Accident Repair Centres (a division of IAG: Insurance Australia Group)
03.2003 - 05.2013

Regional Manager

Woods Accident Repair Centres
01.1988 - 01.2003

Similar Profiles

CREATE PROFILE
Chris Sjodin