Meet Martin, General Sales Manager at Cockermouth BMW
At Lloyd Motor Group, we take great pride in the fact that many of our team members have been with us for several years, and have grown both professionally and personally within the company. We always aim to ecourage the development of our people, and we are especially proud of those who have been promoted from within.
A great example of this is Martin Shepherd, who has been with us at Lloyd Motor Group for over 15 years!
After starting his career with us as a Valeter in Carlisle, Martin has worked his way up through different roles, and has most recently become General Sales Manager at Lloyd BMW Cockermouth.
To learn a bit more about Martin, we caught up with him and asked him a few questions about his career progression at Lloyd Motor Group.
Tell us a bit about your career here at Lloyd.
"I have worked in the motor industry for 15 years – all with Lloyd Motor Group. I started in the valet bay in 2007, and worked my way through the vehicle prep departments and sales department. I was then Sales Manager at 2 different MINI sites, and now BMW General Sales Manager at Lloyd Cockermouth.
"All of my development has been within the company and at the BMW/MINI Training Academy in Reading, and through role specific training with the manufacturer. I have always tried to learn as much as possible form the people around me in all of my roles".
What’s your favourite thing about your current role as BMW General Sales Manager?
"The best thing about the job is the interaction with customers and seeing their passion for the brand. There is also nothing like the buzz of sealing a deal"!
Why did you want to work for Lloyd Motor Group?
"I wanted to join the motor trade and had friends that worked for Lloyd Motor Group who always sang their praises.
Throughout my time at Lloyd Motor Group, I have always loved the family-run feel about the company, and the way it helps progression in the staff. The company look after good staff and the directors are only ever a phone call away, which is nice".
What advice would you give to someone looking to start their career in the motor industry?
"Start straight away, but don’t try to go for your dream job straight away - taking time to build knowledge and experience will help you to succeed further down the line".
What has been the biggest change in the motor industry since you started?
"The technology and development of the products has been huge, and we have seen a huge swing towards electric and hybrid vehicles. The way people buy cars has also changed dramatically, with a huge percentage of customers now following the digital journey to purchase their new car".
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
"Hopefully being successful in my current role and running a buoyant BMW Sales Department, while continuing my development in my career to whatever the next step may be!"
At Lloyd Motor Group, we are dedicated to providing training and supporting our staff along their careers within the motor trade. If you're ready for a career that drives you forward, browse our current vacancies here.
