At Overdrive Motors, it's not just about cars and vans; it's about the passion and the people who drive them - both figuratively and literally! Today, we want to pull back the curtain and introduce you to the team behind the garage doors.
Craig: The Petrol Head
Craig's love for cars was ignited early. Believe it or not, at the age of 13, he already had his hands dirty, buying, fixing, and selling a car. His childhood was adorned with memories of car shows, steam rallies, and cross-country adventures with his family friend, Ian. Fast forward, and Craig has now revved up 25 years in the motor trade, with experiences ranging from roles at main dealer hubs to running his own business.
Kate: The Fast-paced Learner
While I might not have been knee-deep in the motor trade as long as Craig, vehicles have always been in my bloodline. Growing up with a father passionate about rallying and a brother who took to the tracks in karting championships, the love for engines was hard to escape. However, my professional path led me to teaching. With a degree in history and English literature, a PGCE in Primary Education, and a current pursuit of a master's, I've always been on the move. But, having run several businesses of my own, the fast-paced motor world was a challenge I was eager to dive into.
Our Story
Our paths collided thanks to my Defender's rather dramatic attempt to recreate a scene from Mad Max, blanketing Cranleigh with black smoke. Another garage’s verdict was bleak - a new engine, they said. But then, like a mechanic knight in shining armour, Craig swooped in. With a mix of expertise and tenacity, he breathed life back into my lifeless Defender, transforming it from a puffing dragon back to the reliable machine I once knew.
It wasn’t just the engine that sparked back to life, though. As we spent more time together, we discovered that our life goals, values, and aspirations were remarkably in sync. Our shared commitment to excellence, combined with a relentless work ethic, made the decision to join forces a no-brainer. We recognised that together, we could turn Overdrive Motors from a dream into a reality.
Inside the Garage
Our roles in the business are clear, yet we merge where needed. Craig is at the heart of all mechanical endeavours, from services and restorations to rebuilds. He's also the brain behind our investments, ensuring we always get a roar and not a whimper in returns. On the other hand, I steer the administrative, digital, and sales side - from advertisements and photography to website design. Occasionally, I also dive under the bonnet, with Craig's watchful eyes ensuring I don't turn a Porsche into a pushbike!
Outside the Garage
Beyond the engines and exhausts, we are avid explorers. Whether it's nurturing our garden or meandering through the countryside, we relish the outdoors. Craig finds solace in his motorbikes, while I find thrill atop horses. Family is our anchor, and we often find ourselves amidst hearty laughs, Sunday roasts, or cheering at events.
Four-legged Helpers
But wait, there are two extras in our team! Rapha, our golden retriever, and Guinness, our young Springer Spaniel, often steal the show (and occasionally, oily rags and assorted items from neighbouring units). These two are always eager to greet, play, and sometimes even 'assist' in ways we don't quite expect!
Hang On... There's More!
Now, as much as we'd love to spill all the beans in one go, we think it's best to leave some tales for the campfire... or, well, future blog posts! What you've read is just a sneak peek, a mere introduction to our wonderful world at Overdrive Motors. Stick around, because in our upcoming posts, we'll dive deeper into the twists and turns of our lives, the comical misadventures (especially the ones our four-legged assistants land us in!), and the passion that fuels our every day at Overdrive. So, buckle up and join us for this ride; we promise there'll be plenty of gears to shift through and maybe a few unexpected detours! See you next time!
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