Sean Green

Managing Director, BMW Group Ireland

Job description

To make key decisions affecting company performance for BMW, MINI, Motorrad and BMW Financial Services within the Republic of Ireland.

To control BMW, MINI and Motorrad dealerships throughout Republic of Ireland.

How did you begin your career with BMW?

I started working with BMW in September 1988 as an Apprentice Technician - one of the first intakes onto the newly established BMW Apprentice scheme.  I spent four years in the workshop completing the apprenticeship, with a further two years spent as a qualified Technician. Since then I’ve undertaken numerous roles across different areas of BMW Group, including Service Technical, Parts, Marketing, Sales, and the Product department in Munich.

Why did you decide to train as a BMW Technician?

I initially spent two days work experience and then a further week at BMW when I was 15 years old. This made my decision to pursue an apprenticeship.

What are the main responsibilities in your job?

Making key decisions affecting the company performance. I am responsible for all BMW, MINI, Motorrad and BMW Financial Services business within the Republic of Ireland, with a combined turnover in excess of €230m per year. I also control 18 dealerships across the country with sales of 6,950 BMW, 1,350 MINI, 350 Motorcycles and €23m of parts sales.

Describe a typical day?

At 7am I leave home for a morning meeting at the Dublin Chamber of Commerce which is good for making contacts and networking with the business community. At 8am I’ll be in Dublin going through the post and dealing with customer issues, plus requests and invites for everything! I could then be dealing with expenses, project proposals, taking dealer phone calls or conducting an interview with a journalist. There are also management details I have to deal with or a staff meeting. By 6pm I’ll go home and get changed to attend a possible dinner with local business or charity event until 11pm.

What are the personal attributes that help you succeed in your job?

Keeping calm under pressure – I’ve learnt that your mood can influence everyone around you (either positively or negatively).  Being able to communicate with people at all levels is also crucial - if you can talk, and more importantly listen, you’ll go far.

What advice would you give to people embarking on a career?

Challenge yourself, don’t be afraid to take risks and importantly to do something you will enjoy and believe in. I still get a buzz out of driving a BMW!