Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at The South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association?
Join us to find out, and to meet Randall, Abie, Khulu, Giselle and Kevin – the team taking care of business. Learn a little bit more about our dynamic team, what they love about Motor Body Repair and their experience of working with SAMBRA and its members.
This month, meet Randall Langenhoven, Associational Represenative for the Western Cape.
To start off, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what led to you working in the motor body repair industry?
As a teenager, I was interested in automotive mechanics. After seeking apprenticeship opportunities, I realised that the market at that time was flooded with mechanics, so I decided to study Panel Beating.
After serving an apprenticeship for five years, I qualified in 1981. In 1984 I was promoted to workshop foreman, and in 1986, I became a workshop manager & estimator. During this time, I was introduced to Audatex, was a part of the first cohort to attend Audatex training.
In 1992, after many interviews and tests, I was appointed as a Loss Adjustor for Hollard Insurance Co., managing independent motor assessors in the Western Province, Eastern Province, Transkei, Ciskei and Namibia. In 1999 I established my own independent motor assessing business, which operated successfully until 2014 when I sold my shares and joined the Retail Motor Industry (RMI).
Who or what motivates you, and why?
My greatest inspiration will always be my family.
What does your typical day as a SAMBRA Associational Representative look like?
In three words: Busy but rewarding.
What is your main role as a SAMBRA Associational Representative?
[My role is] to represent SAMBRA & the RMI to the best of my abilities, advising and assisting members with all industry related matters.
What is your favourite part of the job?
Seeing a successful and happy SAMBRA member.
What challenges are facing SAMBRA members in the motor body repair sector today, and how do you think, we as an industry could overcome this/these challenges?
The MBR sector has many complex challenges and third-party influences, too many to mention. To overcome these challenges, which have been on-going for many years, we need a shift in mind-set from our leaders. Common goals must be striven toward, and unity must prevail.
What advice would you give to those looking to start a career in motor body?
Go for it! Consult with knowledgeable entities, like the RMI or SAMBRA for training options. Don’t listen to unqualified opinions.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
My hobbies and passions are photography, reading, listening to music, and stimulating conversation.
To contact Randall, or any of the SAMBRA Team, please visit the Meet The Team page, here.
