Spotlight: Connor’s Journey at Lloyd Used Car Centre

Hello Connor, can you talk us through your journey at Lloyd Motor Group, from starting as a vehicle progressor to becoming a service manager?

"I joined Lloyd Motor Group in February 2018 as a Vehicle Progressor after leaving my previous role in banking. I came across the opportunity on Indeed and immediately felt it was the perfect fit for me. Following my initial interview, I offered to come in on a Saturday to get a better feel for the role, had a second interview, and was offered the position. I remained in this role for two years before pursuing an opportunity as an Aftersales Co-ordinator at the Lloyd Used Car Centre. I undertook a trial period, learning from the Kia Carlisle Service team — particularly Rob Murray — and the variety and challenges of the role immediately stood out as areas where I could grow and make a real impact. A few years later, the introduction of INEOS/Allroad into the group presented a significant learning curve, but it allowed me to develop further and thrive. Now, as of April 2026, I am proud to be the Service Manager of a busy Lloyd Used Car Centre, leading a team of one Service Advisor and four Technicians."

What attracted you to the motor trade in the first place?

"Honestly, nothing really attracted me to the motor trade and I never thought I would still be here eight years later! However, I knew it would be challenging but also rewarding, and if you are prepared to stick at it and have patience, good things happen. Lloyd Motor Group was a name I was already familiar with and I had heard how well they look after their staff and how they will progress you if you are willing to put the effort in. Eight years on, I can confidently say I have reaped the rewards."

What do you enjoy the most about working at the Lloyd Used Car Centre?

"I really enjoy the fact that we are such a small, close-knit team. When the cards are stacked against us, we come together and get the job done to the standard expected of us. We have a great sales team spearheaded by Richard Naylor, our Sales Manager, and working closely with him makes our team even stronger. Barbara — or Babs as we call her — is the only lady in the dealership and quite frankly the brains behind the operation; without her, me and Richard wouldn't be able to do what we do! The communication between us all is brilliant, we all share the same goal, and most importantly, we get on and have a laugh."

What does a typical day look like for you now as a service manager?

"My typical day hasn't changed a great deal since stepping into the manager role, as much of what I do now is what I was already doing as an Aftersales Co-ordinator. The difference is that the buck now stops with me — attending meetings, maintaining the budget, handling customer complaints. Previously my manager would deal with these, but now it falls to me. That was daunting at first, but the training and the wealth of knowledge available within Lloyd Motor Group quickly made me realise I'm not on my own. Support and advice are always available, even from colleagues at other sites."

Can you share a standout moment or achievement that you're particularly proud of?

"A real standout moment for me was when my Head of Business, Roy Holliday, told me in 2024 that I would be attending the Lloyd Motor Group Leadership Programme. It was a course I had heard about and honestly thought would never be for me — I didn't feel I was at that level yet. But Roy and his peers saw something in me and put me forward for the eight-week programme. At the end of it, there was a 12-minute presentation to deliver, highlighting what we had learnt and how we would apply those tools within our departments. For someone who really doesn't enjoy speaking in front of people, it was nerve-wracking — but the feedback from the directors and colleagues in attendance made it incredibly rewarding."

What advice would you give your younger self starting out in the industry?

"Become a sponge. Take absolutely everything on board because the experience and knowledge available to you is invaluable — not just for the job, but for life too. What I have learnt has improved my confidence enormously and shown me that people have genuine faith in my abilities, even when I have doubted myself. Lloyd Motor Group's ethics and values really are exactly what they say they are, and that is not to be doubted."

What qualities do you think are essential for long-term success in the motor trade?

"Adaptability is huge — being able to adjust to different scenarios, environments, and personalities. A positive attitude to lead and inspire your team is equally important, as is strong communication, both within your immediate team and across the wider group. And staying calm! That took me a few years to master. With the guidance and leadership available at Lloyd Motor Group, you really can't fail — they genuinely want you to thrive and progress."

What's your ideal way to spend a weekend?

"Spending time with my family and friends. I have two boys who are constantly on the go — if it's not football or swimming, it's building things or heading out for a run. Having the Lake District on our doorstep is a real bonus for walks and paddleboarding, and of course, the obligatory ice cream!"

Dream car and dream road trip?

"Coming from someone who doesn't really consider himself a car person, it would have to be American muscle — a first generation Ford Mustang, cruising down Route 66, taking in the views and soaking up everything the open road has to offer!"

On behalf of everyone at Lloyd Motor Group, we would like to congratulate Connor thank him for his continued dedication and hard work at Lloyd Used Car Centre.

We're always seeking people with commitment, determination, and enthusiasm to join our teams. Browse our current career opportunities below.

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