Steve Lozenkovski is a true entrepreneur and not afraid to step outside his comfort zone. After building the Bears Group to a substantial multi-site operation and selling to AMA Group he went into the hail space... and then the brewing space and created his own detailing line.
How did you get started in the industry?
I officially started my spray painting apprenticeship in 1999 but I’d been sweeping workshop floors way before that. Being in a workshop is in the blood with dad being a panel beater and tow truck driver from as far back as I can remember. Although dad tried to sway me away from the trade at a time when it was perceived to be a “dirty job” he lost that fight when all I wanted to do was be around cars.
What do you do now?
I’m currently the CEO of the Bears Auto Group. My job includes everything management and occasionally I’ll be seen weeding the gardens at one of our sites. I love being in business and I’d like to think I’m good at what I do. In recent years I’ve dabbled in other industries as a side hustle (mostly because I’m terrible at golf). I’m partners in a craft brewery with a bunch of mates because who doesn’t love a beer!
What do you most like about the industry?
I’m so impressed with how far we have come in general. Cars have changed so much in the last decade, and it’s been really exciting to research and embrace new technologies like ADAS. I think the EV space is going to be the next big thing and so I’m excited to see where that takes us too.
What do you most dislike about the industry?
Big question to answer in one go! We need to start having some serious conversations about our worth as an industry. The huge investments we make as individuals physically and mentally and the time and finances business owners invest needs to be addressed in a monetary value. Both employers and employees have invested so much in training and infrastructure to “drag us out of the stone age” but, in my eyes, it hasn’t transpired into the reward we all deserve. While other trade based industries like building have seen huge growth it does not seem like we have enjoyed the same fruits of our labour.
Who do you most admire in the industry?
Easiest question by far, my dad. He has been my mentor, boss, business partner and mate throughout my whole career. Without his words of wisdom and at times a quick reality check, I wouldn’t be where I am today. He’s a true example of hard work pays off and a just an all round legend!
Cars! tell us - first car, current car, dream car?
First car was a 1977 Holden Gemini coupe, I wish I still had it and sometimes browse the internet seeing if it pops up for sale somewhere. We had a good run up until my early 20s and both have a few stories that I probably shouldn’t share.
I’m still a car guy and have a bunch of them, mostly sitting in the garage with the intention of restoring - I’m sure I’m not the only one. I’m a '50’s fan, it was just a cool era and produced some sweet cars. I’ve got a 51 Ford pick up and a 55 split screen VW (both black of course).
My dream car changes all the time, how can anyone choose just one! If I had to pick, I can see myself in an early 911 Porsche one day (possibly in a clad suit smoking a cigar).