James Kolich Weststar Prestige, Vic
When it comes to contributing to the family business James Kolich excels, applying passion and precision to everything he does.
James Kolich, at just 29, has swiftly established himself as an innovative and dedicated bodyshop Manager at Weststar Prestige. Since stepping into the role a year ago, James has demonstrated exceptional leadership, technical skill, and strategic foresight.
Although a part of the Kolich dynasty at Weststar Prestige, James has completed his apprenticeship and attained his trade qualification, deservedly earning the respect of his peers to oversee this award-winning facility.
A fully qualified body repair and diagnostic technician, with certifications from brands such as Mercedes-Benz and Tesla, James brings a decade of experience and a high level of craftsmanship to his work. His background and hands-on expertise make him uniquely suited to not only oversee operations but also foster a skilled, adaptable team. James’s approach is rooted in maintaining an organised, safety-conscious workspace while driving productivity to exceed industry standards and customer expectations.
In the short time he has carried the mantle of manager, James has been successful in achieving new repair strategies and techniques that will in the long term be not only cost-effective and beneficial to the business, but have added new skill levels to his peers.
James has had many achievements which include: PPG MoonWalk installation and rollout; Keco repair system purchase and implementation; refreshing and rebranding of the internal facility in keeping with OEM requirements within deadline time allocation; modernisation of office facilities; and the upgrade and modernisation of the parts holding room with new racking and cabinetry.
This nomination was made by brother Brad Kolich, the business’ dealer principal.
“Although implementing new systems and being the bodyshop manager, James has continued to actively do training with both Mercedes Benz and Tesla and to display a high level of workmanship and attention to detail which I believe would make him a top performing manager and technician in the state,” he said.
“James is my younger brother and after the tragedy of our father and Weststar’s founder’s passing when James was only 15, he overcame many obstacles and developed into a wonderful, dedicated, strong and honest young man whose passion for the industry echoes that of our late father. His dedication to the business is evident in the ongoing and successful implementation of new ideas, techniques and ongoing support of all his staff.
“I strongly recommend James for this award and do so unbiasedly. James is deserved of being recognised for the achievements gained in such a short period of time and his ongoing commitment to the business and to the industry.
“It is without question his late father John would be equally proud of James’s achievements,” Brad said, and the judging panel agreed.