Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic
Lee Van Der Nest

Lee Van Der Nest

Diesel Mechanic / Workshop Manager
Polokwane

Summary

Dynamic business owner with a proven track record at JJT Group, excelling in relationship management and strategic planning. Enhanced customer satisfaction through exceptional service and efficient operations, while reducing costs via effective budget administration. Skilled in staff management and fostering a collaborative workplace culture, driving repeat business and referrals.

Experienced with strategic planning, financial management, and team leadership. Utilizes industry knowledge to drive business growth and operational efficiency. Track record of creating and implementing innovative strategies to enhance profitability and productivity.

Strong leader and problem-solver dedicated to streamlining operations to decrease costs and promote organizational efficiency. Uses independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success.

Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.

Pursuing full-time role that presents professional challenges and leverages interpersonal skills, effective time management, and problem-solving expertise.

Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.

Overview

29
29
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Owner

JJT Group
03.2024 - Current
  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
  • Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
  • Successfully navigated challenging economic conditions by making informed decisions that protected the business''s financial stability.
  • Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.

Workshop Manager

Franco Bulk Transport
10.2014 - 02.2024
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering quality workmanship and meeting deadlines.
  • Maintained workshop activities in line with budget requirements.
  • Purchased and oversaw inventory of supplies, tools and equipment.
  • Managed and led a team of technicians for optimal productivity and job satisfaction.
  • Mentored junior staff members, fostering professional growth and skill development.
  • Oversaw equipment maintenance schedules, prolonging the lifespan of machinery while reducing downtime due to repairs
  • Checked and maintained stock on parts.
  • Group fleet maintenance.
  • Fleet safety checks.
  • Controller/ Supervisor Fuel Conveyance..
  • Improved workshop efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing lean manufacturing techniques.
  • Ensured timely completion of projects with effective resource allocation and scheduling.
  • Optimized inventory management systems, ensuring accurate tracking of supplies and minimizing waste.
  • Promoted a culture of accountability within the team, leading to improved overall performance levels.
  • Scheduled maintenance and repair projects to maintain optimal performance of all equipment and systems.
  • Fostered an environment where open communication was encouraged among team members.
  • Provided leadership, guidance and support to staff members.
  • Established and maintained relationships with key stakeholders.

Owner/Operator

LAW Truck Repairs
09.2009 - 10.2014
  • Provided exceptional customer service, addressing issues promptly to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing high-quality services and timely communication.
  • Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
  • Maximized revenue by identifying new market opportunities and implementing targeted sales strategies.
  • Assessed income and expenses and adapted plans to improve profit levels.
  • Managed daily operations for optimal efficiency, streamlining processes to reduce costs.
  • Fostered strong professional network and partnership building skills to connect with quality leads.
  • Kept all building areas and equipment functional and well-organized to promote business performance.
  • Implemented effective financial management practices, improving cash flow and profitability.
  • Overseeing inventory management, reducing waste and maintaining adequate stock levels to meet demand.
  • Developed and nurtured lasting customer relationships by projecting professional corporate image and responding quickly to logistical and scheduling issues.
  • Optimized workflow processes through careful analysis of operational needs and resource allocation.
  • Facilitated open communication channels among staff members, promoting teamwork for enhanced performance.

Diesel Mechanic

Franco Bulk Transport
10.2004 - 01.2009
  • Utilized hand tools and power tools to repair and maintain diesel engines according to industry standards.
  • Supported overall workshop efficiency by maintaining a clean, organized workspace and adhering to safety guidelines.
  • Enhanced engine performance by conducting regular maintenance and repairs on diesel engines.
  • Maintained detailed records of all repairs, parts replacements, and services performed for reference during future work.
  • Troubleshot and diagnosed problems with brakes, steering, and transmissions.
  • Completed checklist of fluid levels, air filter, tire pressure, and more as part of service orders.
  • Diagnosed and repaired diesel engines to restore functionality in heavy-duty vehicles.
  • Ordered parts necessary for vehicle repairs and new installations.
  • Troubleshot electrical system issues accurately to reduce the likelihood of recurring problems down the line.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment with strong interpersonal skills, teamwork abilities, and effective communication among colleagues and supervisors alike.
  • Documented findings and actions taken.
  • Examined engines, transmissions and vehicle systems to diagnose issues.
  • Reduced downtime for vehicles by diagnosing and repairing complex mechanical issues in a timely manner.
  • Minimized costly breakdowns through proactive preventative maintenance measures on heavy equipment and vehicles.
  • Performed preventive maintenance on engines, transmissions, tires, and other vehicle systems.
  • Used specialty equipment, standard tools, and gauges to complete assessments and repairs.
  • Installed and adjusted fuel injection systems and turbochargers to enhance vehicle performance.
  • Inspected vehicle systems to assess function and uncover defects.
  • Installed new systems and components in vehicles.
  • Inspected and adjusted brakes, steering systems and wheel bearings to address related issues.
  • Disassembled and repaired diesel engines in automobiles, trucks, buses, and construction vehicles.
  • Streamlined workflow processes by implementing efficient organization within the repair shop.
  • Preserved fleet longevity through comprehensive overhauls of aging equipment as needed.
  • Increased fuel efficiency through the optimization of diesel engines and emissions systems.
  • Boosted workshop productivity, implementing efficient scheduling system for repairs.

Diesel Mechanic

Volvo Group
01.2004 - 10.2004
  • Provided exceptional customer service during consultations, addressing client concerns and ensuring their satisfaction throughout the repair process.
  • Ensured safety compliance by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of federal regulations related to diesel mechanics.
  • Tested and adjusted engines to foster proper performance.
  • Improved customer satisfaction with thorough inspections, accurate diagnoses, and effective communication of repair needs.
  • Collaborated with team members to complete large-scale projects on time and under budget.
  • Implemented preventative maintenance program, significantly reducing incidence of unexpected breakdowns.
  • Achieved high rate of first-time fixes, minimizing need for return visits.
  • Customized heavy-duty vehicles for specific operational requirements, increasing their functionality.
  • Diagnosed complex engine problems, significantly reducing downtime for fleet vehicles.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by quickly addressing and resolving mechanical issues.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, explaining complex mechanical issues in understandable terms.
  • Conducted electrical repairs and installations, ensuring vehicles' electrical systems operated efficiently.
  • Diagnosed mechanical problems for repair or replacement.
  • Performed preventive maintenance on diesel engines, preventing malfunctions.
  • Handled repairs, replacing broken components and inspecting engines for wear and tear.
  • Used specialized tools and equipment to diagnose and repair issues with diesel engines.
  • Followed factory and dealership standards to accurately perform repairs according to work order.
  • Replaced and repaired fuel injection systems for diesel engines in buses and trucks.
  • Ordered new parts for broken belts, hoses and filters, resupplying inventory.
  • Utilized hand tools and power tools to repair and maintain diesel engines according to industry standards.
  • Troubleshot and diagnosed problems with brakes, steering, and transmissions.
  • Completed checklist of fluid levels, air filter, tire pressure, and more as part of service orders.
  • Diagnosed and repaired diesel engines to restore functionality in heavy-duty vehicles.

Apprentice

Northan Truck and Bus
01.1997 - 01.2001
  • Built strong relationships with team members and supervisors, fostering a positive work environment.
  • Enhanced practical skills by assisting experienced professionals in various tasks.
  • Observed experienced professionals in action, gaining valuable insights into best practices within the field.
  • Learned proper and safe use and maintenance of power tools, hand tools and safety equipment.
  • Learned wide range of simple and complex techniques from on-the-job training.
  • Worked under guidance of experienced professionals to learn trade best practices and techniques.
  • Completed assigned tasks efficiently and accurately, contributing to overall project success.
  • Adhered to company policies, procedures, and safety guidelines during daily work activities.
  • Exhibited strong work ethic by consistently arriving on time, completing tasks diligently.
  • Prepared worksite by setting up required tools and supplies.
  • Demonstrated eagerness to learn by asking questions and seeking clarification when necessary.
  • Fostered positive work culture by actively participating in team-building activities.
  • Gained proficiency in various hand and power tools to ensure tasks were completed efficiently and safely.
  • Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new techniques and applying them to daily tasks.
  • Acquired new certifications that expanded range of tasks I could perform independently.

Education

No Degree - Controller/Supervisor Fuel Conveyance Module

CAC Fleet Safety Consultants
Polokwane
04.2001 -

No Degree - LEAK TEST TRAINING

GRW South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

No Degree - Master Technician

Volvo Group South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

No Degree - Master Technician IX

Volvo Group South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

No Degree - Master Technician 1

Volvo Group South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

Deisel Mechanic

Merseta
Johannesburg, South Africa
11-2001

No Degree - FUEL INJECTION

MAN TRUCK AND BUS
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

High School Diploma -

Witbank College
Witbank
04.2001 -

Skills

Business operations management

Relationship management

Labor relations

Budget administration

Relationship building

Small business operations

Administrative oversight

Staff management

Verbal and written communication

Strategic planning

Staff hiring

Certification

[Area of certification] Training - [Timeframe]

Timeline

Owner

JJT Group
03.2024 - Current

Workshop Manager

Franco Bulk Transport
10.2014 - 02.2024

Owner/Operator

LAW Truck Repairs
09.2009 - 10.2014

Diesel Mechanic

Franco Bulk Transport
10.2004 - 01.2009

Diesel Mechanic

Volvo Group
01.2004 - 10.2004

No Degree - Controller/Supervisor Fuel Conveyance Module

CAC Fleet Safety Consultants
04.2001 -

No Degree - LEAK TEST TRAINING

GRW South Africa
04.2001 -

No Degree - Master Technician

Volvo Group South Africa
04.2001 -

No Degree - Master Technician IX

Volvo Group South Africa
04.2001 -

No Degree - Master Technician 1

Volvo Group South Africa
04.2001 -

No Degree - FUEL INJECTION

MAN TRUCK AND BUS
04.2001 -

High School Diploma -

Witbank College
04.2001 -

Apprentice

Northan Truck and Bus
01.1997 - 01.2001

Deisel Mechanic

Merseta
Lee Van Der NestDiesel Mechanic / Workshop Manager