Phillipa Gray-Finning of PJ’s Discount Tyre Service Castlemaine has won the ‘Employee of the Year’ award at the annual Automotive Industry Awards.
Phillipa was thrilled to claim the honours from nine finalists from across the state at the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) night of nights held at the Crown Palladium Room on May 13.
The local business was also one of the top 14 finalists in the ‘Best Small Automotive Business – Regional’ category. A terrific effort from 5000 automotive businesses across the state including everything from mechanics to panel beaters and mower shops to motorcycle retailers.
The award follows the business’ national Hankook Masters Dealer of the Year Award success in 2019.
Phillipa and her husband Sean are currently in the process of taking over the long running local family business which was proudly established by Sean’s parents Peter and Pat Finning in 1988.
After 35 years servicing the Castlemaine community the couple are looking towards retirement and say the latest award win really shows the business is in great hands moving forward.
“Phillipa and Sean have been putting in the work to learn every facet of the business and take it into the next chapter and we are really thrilled to see Phillipa’s training and hard work recognised,” the couple said.
“As office administrator, Phillipa has worked tirelessly to update and streamline the business’s bookkeeping and accounts systems.
“In addition, Phillipa has also created a new Booking Diary system which has provided a clear and concise booking process for clients and we are receiving regular customer feedback that we are doing a good job, customers feel well looked after, processes are explained well, and clear and concise advice is provided around works required to help our customers to make an informed decision,” they said.
“Phillipa has also developed a keen eye for the tyre market and is always checking to make sure PJ’s are making the most out of specials and rebates available to ensure we can pass on the best deal to our customers,” Peter said.
“Phillipa’s dedication often goes unnoticed due to the extremely busy nature of our business, but we feel this award helps us to show her just how grateful we are for all her hard work,” Pat said.
Phillipa and Sean say they have big shoes to fill but they are up to the task.
“We are grateful to mum and dad for nominating Phillipa for this award and for their support. The awards really opened up new doors and networking opportunities. We had the chance to meet some representatives from the UK on the night and we have already had some of the award sponsors reach out to see how they can support us in the future which is fantastic,” Sean said.
“We are also constantly working to ensure we are up with the latest trends. In fact, we are currently in negotiations with Hankook about sourcing their new Ion Evo AS tyres – their first tyre line designed specifically for Electric Vehicles,” Phillipa said.
“They are built to factor in the increased torque off the line and the extra battery weight these vehicles carry for up to 50 per cent better tyre life,” Sean said.
The couple officially take over the reins on July 3, whilst for Peter and Pat the next adventure begins with plans for a well-deserved overseas holiday.