Curtis Bennett shares his #SuccessStory for National Apprenticeship Week!
Throughout National Apprenticeship Week 2023, we’re celebrating the success of apprenticeships and the impact they have on individuals and businesses! In recognition of this important week, we're sharing another career success story from within Lloyd Motor Group...
Starting his career in the motor trade as an apprentice in 2003, Curtis Bennett worked his way up to become a Sales Executive at Lloyd Kia Carlisle. We caught up with Curtis to learn more about the journey from his apprenticeship to his current role.
Can you give us a background on where your career in the motor industry started, and the journey of how you got to your current role?
"In 2003, I started as an apprentice technician for Gilligan Jaguar, which then became Lloyd Jaguar a few years later. After 4 years, I qualified in level 3 Light Vehicle Servicing and Repairs at Carlisle College, and throughout this time we took a few trips down to Jaguar’s amazing factory in Castle Bromwich. Being a huge petrolhead from a young age and walking into Jaguar with the X, S, XJ and XK models was a real buzz at only 16!
"An opportunity came up just next door at Ford as a Service Advisor, and my knowledge on cars helped significantly in this role. I was working across numerous sites they had at the time, including Carlisle, Workington, and Dumfries. I then moved to Audi, and spent over 4 years there gaining more aftersales, accident repair and car sales experience.
"Some 11 years later after leaving Lloyd Jaguar, I returned to Lloyd Motor Group, this time at Lloyd BMW Carlisle within the aftersales department where I spent 4 years.
"Having some previous sales experience, I then moved to Lloyd Kia Carlisle as a Sales Executive, where I have now been for just over 1 year. This past year has been quite a surprise, as I’ve realised the sheer demand for the Kia brand and also just how good these cars are!"
What’s your favourite part of your current role?
"I would say that my favourite part is seeing new Kia customers return after their test drive in any of our models (mostly EV6, Niro, Sportage), and seeing the surprised look on their face when they realise just how good these cars are to sit in and drive".
What do you enjoy about being part of Lloyd Motor Group?
"Working for Lloyd Motor Group has made me some new friends for life. I have met some great people in the group throughout my 7 years so far. The staff from the very top are great to work with and very approachable, and unlike any other company I’ve worked for".
Have you got any advice for young people looking to start an apprenticeship?
"My advice would be to show enthusiasm and show the initiative to learn about these wonderful brands we have. If you do this and you work hard, then opportunities will come to you!"
Curtis’s journey from apprentice to Sales Executive is a great example of the power of apprenticeships and the opportunities they can provide!
Thinking about starting an apprenticeship in the motor trade? Read all about our apprenticeships and learn how to apply here.
