KEN KERR

Interview: Stephanie Williams

His work life revolves around cars, but Audi Service Manager Ken Kerr loves nothing more than family time and Playstation in his downtime.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in a town called Centurion in South Africa. I now live in Lenah Valley.

Tell us a little bit about your work? I’m the service manager for the Audi Centre Hobart and Jackson VW. I try to create the best workplace in Hobart - happy employees mean happy customers.

Which do you think is your favourite car make/model and why? I’ll always say AUDI!!!

How are electric vehicles (EVs) changing the servicing industry? EVs are changing the type of work technicians do; they are almost programmers now with all the software checks they do.

Are there car makes/models that come in more often for servicing? Servicing is dictated by distance travelled and time, so usually tradies and commercial vehicles are serviced more often.

What can people do between services to extend the life of their car? Always check your fluid levels for oil and coolant. Make sure the tyre pressures are always correct as cars don’t always love doing short trips.

What do you love doing outside work? Family time is very important to me, so anything with my wife and children is top priority. Watching my girls play sports is my favourite thing.

Who do you admire? My Dad.

What’s your favourite podcast or tv show? The Joe Rogan Experience and The Mandalorian.

Secret vice? Playstation. It’s my ‘me’ time!

What are you reading now? Not a Life Coach by James Smith.

What gets your goat? People who talk down to others; no one is more special than anyone else.

Do you have any pets? Yes two, a Maltese shih tzu named T-rex and a beagle cross spaniel named Nacho.

What was your first job? Pizza delivery.

What are your daily news/social media habits? I’ve moved away from reading the news recently as it all seems doom and gloom.

Your favourite place (in Hobart) for… Brunch: Whisk and Co. Dinner: Peppina.

Favourite team? Manchester United (international) and Sydney Swans (local).

Favourite Hobart secret? Elrick at Wide Awake coffee in North Hobart.

Parting words? Don’t just assume, always ask and find out!!!