Parts Managers are often the unsung heroes of the bodyshop. This is the inaugural year of this award and so their praises we are now singing.
Chelsea Donges, Fortress Collision Repair Services, QLD
Chelsea Donges is no stranger to awards having carried of the Parts Manager trophy as this year’s Women in Collision Awards.
Chelsea is responsible for driving consistent, cost-effective parts management across the group, training and mentoring parts managers, and analysing performance data for the executive team. Her commitment to best practices has led to major improvements in parts ordering, receiving, and tracking processes. She has also developed effective monitoring and reporting mechanisms to help the team make informed decisions on sales mix, parts margins, and irregularities.
In the past 18 months, Chelsea’s influence on parts management has led to significant financial and operational improvements. She also developed a parts management training module for the company’s learning management system, further contributing to the skill development of the team.
She is a mentor to many within and outside the parts function and she is known for her honesty, integrity, and dedication. Due to her exceptional performance, Chelsea was promoted to a group parts management role, where she continues to ensure consistent processes and train the next generation of parts managers.
James Hynd, Cooma Crash Repairs, NSW
James is described as an invaluable and long-term member of the Cooma Crash Repair’s team, with over 30 years of experience. He has transitioned from a skilled panel beater and painter to the parts and storeroom manager, where his knowledge of vehicles and repairs has proven essential.
One of James’s key strengths is his ability to negotiate parts prices and freight costs, leveraging personal relationships he has developed with suppliers. He takes immense pride in sourcing rare and difficult parts at affordable prices. His dedication to securing profitable deals directly contributes to the growth of the business, and he manages this critical aspect of operations as though it were his own. His commitment and enthusiasm, even after more than 30 years, continue to impress and inspire, making him a true asset to the company.
James also plays a vital role as a mentor to the business’ predominantly immigrant workforce. He shares his extensive industry knowledge, helping new and young staff bridge the gap between different training methods from overseas and local practices.
Nelson Paraia, Gemini Townsville, QLD
Nelson Paraia was born in Papua New Guinea. Aged 17, he made the life-changing decision to move to Townsville in 2001. He enrolled at James Cook University to study accounting.
Nelson began working at a local meatworks but soon sought greater opportunities. In February 2014, he joined Gemini Townsville as a detailer, bringing with him a positive attitude and determination. Over the next decade, Nelson worked his way up to parts manager, a role where he has excelled by building strong relationships with suppliers and fostering effective communication. His dedication and reliability have made him an indispensable asset to the company.
As a single parent, Nelson has faced numerous challenges but continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, balancing family and professional responsibilities with unwavering commitment. His perfect attendance record and tireless work ethic are a testament to his determination and passion for his role.
Nelson is also deeply involved in the community, participating enthusiastically in charity events and fundraising initiatives. His leadership fosters a sense of teamwork and camaraderie, elevating the morale and productivity of the entire team and also trains staff who are interested in working in the parts department.
Nelson’s positivity, dedication, and willingness to go the extra mile make him an invaluable part of Gemini Townsville. His contributions inspire those around him, and his commitment to excellence is an example for all.
Carlie Martin, Gemini Rockhampton, QLD
Carlie is an exceptional Parts Manager who goes above and beyond in her role. She handles all aspects of parts management, including receiving, cataloging, managing backorders, and sourcing consumables and equipment. Carlie also oversees paint liquid orders, manages stocktake reports, and ensures damaged parts are credited. Beyond her primary responsibilities, Carlie has taken on the role of supporting new international staff by sourcing tools, arranging housing, and even securing employment for their spouses.
Her dedication extends to improving staff morale by organizing birthday celebrations, staff outings, and functions. When filling in as Centre Manager for two weeks with minimal training, Carlie demonstrated her ability to take on leadership roles effectively. She has also been instrumental in developing staff benefits.
Carlie’s success and achievements are remarkable. Before relocating to Queensland, she served as the NSW and ACT Distribution Manager for consumables at AMA. She has been with AMA for over six years and won the Women in Collision award for Parts Manager. Carlie has traveled across multiple states to train staff, demonstrating her versatility and leadership. She is also certified in forklift operation and first aid, further benefiting the site.
Her positive attitude and strong organisational skills ensure a well-functioning parts area, and her compassion has earned her the title of “workshop mum.” Carlie’s ability to lift team morale and provide emotional support is well-known, making her an invaluable team member.
Carlie leads by example, always the first to offer help. Her training abilities are highly regarded, and she consistently makes new staff feel welcome. Carlie’s genuine care for people and her leadership qualities make her a highly valued and respected member of the AMA team.