Automotive Service Director

About the role

Hyundai of Charleston is seeking a proven and driven Automotive Service Director to lead one of our high-volume import dealership service operations in the Charleston area. This is an exciting opportunity for a strong automotive leader to step into a busy, established shop with experienced advisors, skilled technicians, and the support of a growing, family-owned organization.

For over 30 years, Krause Auto Group has built its reputation on customer satisfaction, employee growth, and promoting from within. We believe our employees are more than just a number—we support individual development, encourage advancement opportunities, and celebrate success stories across every department. With a portfolio of world-class automotive brands including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Lincoln, Hyundai, Genesis, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce, Koenigsegg, McLaren, and Lotus across multiple states, you’ll be joining a fast-paced organization with long-term career growth opportunities.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• High-volume, well-established import dealership
• Strong existing team of advisors and technicians
• Opportunity to influence culture, process improvements, and long-term growth
• Executive leadership support with autonomy to lead effectively
• Career growth within a growing multi-state automotive organization

Why You’ll Love It Here

• Aggressive compensation plan
• Free health insurance option available
• 401(k) with company match
• HSA company contributions
• Dental & vision insurance available
• Paid vacation, PTO, and holidays
• Career advancement opportunities—we promote from within
• Employee discounts on vehicles, parts & service
• Family-owned and operated culture
• Long-term career stability
• Supportive executive leadership team

Responsibilities

As Automotive Service Director, you’ll oversee the overall performance, culture, profitability, and daily operations of the service department while leading a team focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Leadership & Department Operations

• Lead all fixed operations within the service department from write-up through vehicle delivery
• Drive department profitability, efficiency, productivity, and overall operational performance
• Manage, mentor, develop, and motivate service advisors, technicians, and department staff
• Build a positive, accountability-driven culture focused on teamwork and performance
• Recruit, train, and retain top automotive talent

Customer Experience & Performance

• Maintain and improve Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) performance
• Ensure customers receive prompt, professional, and high-quality service experiences
• Partner with Parts, Sales, and leadership teams to create a seamless customer journey
• Resolve escalated customer concerns professionally and efficiently

Process Improvement & Financial Oversight

• Optimize workflow, scheduling, and shop productivity in a high-volume environment
• Monitor department financial performance, expenses, and profitability metrics
• Utilize dealership systems such as CDK Global and Xtime to improve operational efficiency and customer communication
• Analyze reports, KPIs, and performance data to identify opportunities for growth and improvement
• Collaborate with OEM partners and executive leadership to drive innovation and department success

Requirements

• Proven leadership experience within an automotive import dealership service department
• Strong track record of driving profitability, efficiency, and CSI performance
• Experience managing high-volume fixed operations environments
• Hands-on leadership style with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Strong operational, organizational, and financial management skills
• Experience with CDK and Xtime preferred
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, growth-focused environment
• Passion for employee development, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence
• Professional communication and leadership presence
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Must pass pre-employment background check, MVR, and drug screening

Benefits

• Aggressive compensation plan
• Free health insurance option available
• 401(k) with company match
• HSA company contributions
• Dental & vision insurance available
• Paid vacation, PTO, and holidays
• Employee discounts on vehicles, parts & service