In the latest edition of our bodyshop spotlight series we’re highlighting the great work of the team at our Leeds site.  

We caught up with Bodyshop Manager Ben Gray to chat about working at Activate Accident Repair, what the Leeds bodyshop has to offer, and what’s ahead for 2026. 

How has your experience been working at Activate Accident Repair and managing the Leeds bodyshop? 

“It’s been fantastic. The progression opportunities have been incredible. I originally joined as a Workshop Controller – a big career change for me, as my background is primarily mechanical. I knew I wanted to move away from the tools, so when the chance came up to join Activate Accident Repair, I jumped at it and I have no regrets on making the move. 

I’ve been presented with so many progression opportunities – within 18 months I progressed to Assistant Bodyshop Manager, and another 18 months later the Bodyshop Manager role became available and I knew I was ready to take the next step in my career.”

What would you say makes Leeds an industry-leading site? 

“I think a lot of the other Activate Accident Repair managers would agree that the drive to keep up with the constantly evolving market sets us apart from many other bodyshops. 

Vehicle technology is changing fast, and it can be hard to keep up. Here in Leeds we’re always learning, and the business ensures we have the right equipment to complete any repair to an exceptional standard. 

Take electric vehicles for example, we call them “computers on wheels.” Having the software, diagnostic tools and safety equipment in-house to work on ADAS systems, cameras, radars and other advanced features means we’re fully prepared for the industry’s shift toward electrification.”

What makes the Leeds bodyshop unique? 

“Hand-on-heart, the team here in Leeds is second-to-none – I have never experienced this team dynamic anywhere else. 

Our retention says it all, almost everyone who joined the business when the site opened is still with the business, and we’ve grown the team along the way too.  

We all agree that it’s an incredible place to work, the dynamic and culture of the team here shows how good this bodyshop is.”

How does working at Activate Accident Repair differ from other places that you have worked? 

“It’s been a complete change for me, but one thing that stands out is how employee‑focused the business is. The benefits here are unlike anything I’ve had before. Even small things, like the healthcare cashback scheme that covers the cost of things like glasses, show how much the company values its people.”

What certifications does the Leeds bodyshop have? 

“We are BSI accredited repairers, passing our two most recent audits with flying colours, which isn’t an industry standard. Having this to our name shows that we’re committed to providing top quality repairs. 

Every technician on site is City & Guilds or IMI qualified, and we’re committed to keeping those qualifications up to date. The certification is important because it helps our technicians stay up to date with the latest vehicle technology and repair methods.”

Can you tell us more about the apprenticeship scheme you use in Leeds? 

“We partner with Thatcham Research to train all apprentices. It’s a brilliant programme – one of our former apprentices, Ben Routh, even won Apprentice of the Year and is now a Vehicle Damage Assessor. 

We have a couple of active apprentices on site. One MET apprentice passed earlier this year, and we have two Panel Beater apprentices, one in their final year who is on track to pass soon, and another in their second year who is doing a phenomenal job.”

Can you tell me more about what this year has in store for Leeds? 

“We have the right team in place to meet the high volume of repairs in Leeds. Our focus is on continuing to be the site of choice, delivering top‑quality repairs and maintaining our position as market leaders. We want to show why Activate Accident Repair Leeds is the right bodyshop for any repair.”

Thankyou Ben for sharing some insight on the operations and what the future holds for the Leeds site.