At On the Ramp, we share stories of professionals who have taken practical and sometimes unconventional routes in their careers. Chris Wileman’s progression from school-leaver to owner of Castle Garage is one such example, offering useful insights for those in the automotive trade or considering business ownership.
Youtube – https://youtu.be/wrgL-L1kPyg
Early Days: Finding His Path
Chris Wileman’s entry into the automotive industry wasn’t planned. Like many young people, he wasn’t entirely sure what to do after school. However, a strong interest in cars led him to a two-week work experience placement at Castle Garage, arranged by his school. Although he enjoyed the experience, Chris wasn’t initially convinced that a career as a mechanic was for him. Nonetheless, he accepted an apprenticeship offered by the garage, which marked the beginning of his career in the trade.
During his apprenticeship, Chris developed a strong liking for the work and gained a deeper understanding of car maintenance. His boss, Martyn, saw potential in Chris early on and began mentoring him in both the technical and business aspects of running a garage.
Moving Up the Ranks
Chris’s dedication soon paid off. By the age of 22, he was promoted to assistant manager. This role involved learning the details of managing a business, from customer service to overseeing other technicians. This experience provided Chris with a solid foundation in what it takes to run a successful garage.
A key moment in Chris’s career came when Martyn hinted that Chris could be part of his succession plan. This was more than just a suggestion—Martyn had a clear vision for Chris to eventually take over the business. This mentorship was crucial in shaping Chris’s future.
Taking the Leap: Becoming an Owner
At 24, Chris took a significant step by purchasing a 10% stake in Castle Garage. This investment was both a challenge and an incentive, driving Chris to work even harder.
Over the next few years, Chris continued to immerse himself in all aspects of the business. By the time he was 28, he was ready to buy out the remaining 90% of Castle Garage. This was not a simple transaction; it involved a payment plan that allowed Chris to take full control of the business gradually. The arrangement worked well for both Chris and the outgoing owner, who could retire comfortably while ensuring the business was in good hands.
Expanding the Business: Acquiring a Second Branch
With the success of Castle Garage under his belt, Chris didn’t stop there. Recognising an opportunity to expand, he decided to acquire a second branch. This move was both a strategic and a bold step, reflecting his growing confidence as a business owner. The second branch, although operating under the Castle Garage brand, brought new challenges and opportunities. Chris had to manage the complexities of running two locations, ensuring both maintained the high standards that customers had come to expect. This expansion marked another significant milestone in Chris’s career, showcasing his ambition and ability to grow the business beyond its original scope.
Navigating New Responsibilities
Owning and managing two branches at a young age came with its own set of challenges. Chris found himself in a leadership role, managing teams of experienced technicians across both locations. This could have been a source of tension, but Chris handled it with respect and maturity, quickly earning the trust of his teams.
One of the most notable aspects of Chris’s journey was the trust between him and Martyn. The agreement to purchase the business was largely based on a handshake, reflecting the strong relationship they had built. Despite the risks involved, both parties were committed to making the transition and expansion a success.
Moving Forward: Leading Castle Garage
Today, Chris Wileman is the owner of Castle Garage, now with two thriving branches under his leadership. His journey from apprentice to owner, and now multi-branch owner, highlights the importance of mentorship, hard work, and taking calculated risks. Chris’s story offers practical lessons for those in the trade, whether they’re just starting out or considering taking on more responsibility.
At On the Ramp, we share stories like Chris’s to provide real-world insights into the automotive industry. Stay tuned for more stories and updates.
