Trevor Gilbert
Senior Vehicle Damage Assessor
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About
Senior Vehicle Damage Assessor with over 30 years' experience across the accident repair and motor insurance industries. Combining extensive hands-on technical expertise with 17 years as a qualified ATA Vehicle Damage Assessor, I have developed a strong reputation for accurate estimating, cost control, insurance compliance and team leadership. My career spans independent repairers, premium manufacturer dealerships including Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar and Aston Martin, and 24 years within an insurer-owned repair network.
An experienced people manager who has successfully implemented process improvements, trained assessors and resolved complex customer and technical disputes while maintaining high standards of repair quality and commercial performance.
Experience
Senior Vehicle Damage Assessor at Orpington Repair Centre
Senior VDA confirmed 6 years ago | VDA for 17 years | Total service 24 years
- Lead assessor within a major insurer-owned repair network, managing the VDA team and daily estimating operations.
- Produced accurate repair assessments using Audatex and manufacturer repair methods.
- Controlled repair costs and reduced unnecessary supplements through precise method selection.
- Ensured the workshop received sufficient estimated work to meet commercial and productivity targets.
- Oversaw total loss percentages, ensuring correct categorisation and safe repair decisions.
- Maintained strict insurance compliance, ensuring all repairs followed OEM and Thatcham specifications.
- Implemented new processes to improve accuracy, efficiency, and workflow within the VDA team.
- Responsible for managing average repair and paint costs and monitoring parts-to-labour ratios against business targets.
- Managed and resolved customer complaints, damage disputes, and complex technical cases.
- Collaborated closely with insurers, engineers, and workshop teams to maintain high repair standards.
Panel Technician / Panel Shop Team Leader at Orpington Repair Centre (Churchill Insurance)
Joined after world travel | Total service 24 years
- Completed structural and cosmetic repairs to manufacturer standards.
- Promoted to Panel Shop Team Leader, overseeing repair quality and workflow.
- Developed strong technical foundation that supported progression into vehicle damage assessment.
Panel Technician — Jaguar, Aston Martin at Lancasters Sevenoaks
7 years
- Performed high-end structural and cosmetic repairs on Jaguar and Aston Martin vehicles.
- Operated and ran two bracket jigs, repairing heavily damaged vehicles requiring precision alignment.
- Achieved Jaguar Master Technician status, demonstrating advanced technical expertise.
- Delivered premium repair quality aligned with luxury brand standards.
Panel Technician at Medway Mercedes
7 years
- Performed structural and cosmetic repairs within a main dealer environment.
- Maintained high repair standards aligned with Mercedes-Benz manufacturer expectations.
Apprentice Panel Beater & Paint Sprayer at Independent Repairer
Early career
- Completed apprenticeship in panel beating and paint spraying.
- Achieved City & Guilds Distinction in both disciplines.
- Built strong foundational skills in vehicle construction, repair, and refinishing.
Career Break — World Travel
6 months
- Travelled internationally, developing independence, adaptability, and cultural awareness.
