Apprenticeship Opportunities in the RJTK Automotive Group

Originally hailing from South East London, Darren has spent all of his career in the motor industry and here he tells us a little more about it – let’s get to know him!

"My whirlwhind automotive career began at 17 as a Valeter at Clifford’s Vauxhall in Gravesend, Kent. I was soon promoted to service driver before securing a step up as Site Manager at my local Ford dealership. My ultimate goal at that point was to join the Sales team, so I offered to work all weekends and days off for that department.

Once I was given the opportunity to try Sales, I out-performed 75% of the experienced Sales Consultants on site! I was a trainee Sales Consultant for 6 months before moving on to a fully-fledged sales role, which I successfully enjoyed for 2 years. When the opportunity arose to become a Business Manager, I grasped it with both hands and, within time, I was made New Car Sales Controller at Ford in Sittingbourne.

After relocating to Lincolnshire, I took a position as Used Car Controller before joining Ford as a Business Manager, once again. In 2004 I decided to give self-employment a go, working as a Partner in an independent Ford specialist - which was a great learning opportunity! In 2009 I joined Thurlby Motors as Sales Manager before finally joining the RJTK Group as General Manager at Drayton Motors Kia in Boston. Since I joined the group, I have worked closely with Robin Wilson, CEO of the RJTK Group to further grow the RJTK brand. Now with four Kia dealerships, three Vauxhall dealerships, a Suzuki site, a Maxus dealership AND our Autohub used car site under our belt, we are finally in the position to pass on the baton and help others carve a great career for themselves in the motor trade. There is nothing more pleasing that to see people grow within the business.

What drives me? I have always been determined to achieve my goals and had great role models in my parents. It’s been a lot of hard work, but I truly believe the motor industry offers an exciting, varied and rewarding career with lots of opportunities! Trust me, i've done it!"