David Hodgson

At Platinum Vehicles (May 2020 – May 2024), as Director, I was responsible for the overall management and daily operations of a used car dealership. My key duties included managing inventory to ensure a stock profile relevant to market trends, each vehicle was inspected by myself which included a multi-point inspection, routine servicing and fault diagnosis if required, developing and implementing sales strategies to drive business growth, and maintaining a high standard of customer service. I ensured compliance with industry regulations, optimized profitability, and built long-term relationships with clients and stakeholders, contributing to the dealership's sustained success. Prior to this, at Vauxhall Finance (March 2019 – March 2020), I managed dealer networks for MG and SsangYong brands across northern UK. In this role, I exceeded sales targets by negotiating bespoke financial packages with dealers, expanding dealership franchises, and securing critical financial agreements that boosted revenue. My focus was on delivering value-added solutions to the dealer network, which led to the successful onboarding of new franchises and increased sales volume. Earlier, as General Sales Manager at Henson Motor Group (January 2017 – March 2019), I was instrumental in driving business innovation, introducing new DMS systems, and launching a sister company and an MG franchise within the dealership. I created sales strategies that increased revenue by 10%, with a 20% increase in F&I income, including a record-setting month with £45,000 in income. My role also included managing the sales team, ensuring optimal pricing and presentation of stock, and overseeing recruitment and staff development to meet business goals.

I have experience in military operations with a strong background in vehicle maintenance and logistics. I served as a Guardsman (Coldstream Guards) from 2014 to 2017 in the British Army, where I initially completed 28 weeks of basic training and then went onto complete various exercises and performed ceremonial duties at royal establishments, including Buckingham Palace. This role enhanced my discipline, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure. Whilst in this role I was responsible on barracks for fire safety by completing regular checks of fire extinguishers and fire points on site. I also worked within the stores completing daily maintenance and servicing of weapons to ensuring all weapons were readily available for use. Additionally, I served in the Territorial Army (Royal Logistic Corps) from 2008 to 2010 as a part-time driver, where I further developed my operational and technical skills, particularly in vehicle management and logistics coordination, additionally being promoted to the rank of lance corporal. I additionally served as a soldier/driver (Royal Logistic Corps) 2005 to 2008, starting with 12 weeks basic soldier training and going on to complete training on various military vehicles. I operated heavy goods vehicles, gaining expertise in convoy and off-road driving, as well as servicing and maintaining military vehicles. This experience fostered strong problem-solving abilities and adaptability in diverse environments. Throughout my military service, I honed essential qualities such as leadership, teamwork, organizational skills, and integrity, which have significantly contributed to my effectiveness in civilian employment.

I Completed an apprenticeship during 2001 and 2004 at William Olivers, North Shields. Specializing in sheet metal work, where I gained hands-on experience and technical expertise in various welding techniques, including MIG and TIG. This training allowed me to develop a strong foundation in metal fabrication processes, focusing on precision, quality control, and safety standards.

Collaborating closely with a team, I was involved in the fabrication of metal components, which enhanced my teamwork and communication skills while fostering a collaborative work environment. I also cultivated problem-solving abilities by troubleshooting fabrication issues and implementing effective solutions. My experience in this role honed my attention to detail and time management skills, ensuring that projects were completed efficiently and to high standards. Overall, this apprenticeship equipped me with valuable skills that contribute to my strong work ethic and technical proficiency in metalworking.