Meet the Team - Kirsty

Kirsty joined Poole Accident Repair in February 2025. Having previously worked with Steve, our Head of Bodyshop Operations, and Frank, our Bodyshop Manager, she was excited to reconnect and join the team. Kirsty has always had a passion for cars and enjoys being part of a business that shares her enthusiasm for the automotive industry.

What is your job title?

My job title is Vehicle Damage Assessor (VDA). My role involves assessing the damage on vehicles, whether that’s sales cars, insurance work, or customers wanting repairs.

I started out in a customer service role, but have always had a passion for cars as my dad introduced me to the automotive world when I was growing up.

Experience is key in this job. When vehicles come in for assessment, it can be quite a complex process, especially with cars that have sustained heavier damage. There’s the obvious primary damage but also hidden secondary damage under the bodywork. Training and experience help us identify how an impact affects areas you can’t see before the repairs begin.

How is technology changing your work?

With hybrid and electric vehicles, damage patterns are evolving. Modern safety sensors mean we’re seeing more side damage rather than front-end collisions. As technology advances, we’re constantly learning new methods to ensure repairs follow manufacturer guidelines and deliver the best results for our customers.

What made you want to work for Poole Accident Repair?

The team! When you work for a company that truly values you, it makes a huge difference. You feel motivated, appreciated,

and fulfilled in what you do. I travel quite a distance every day, but it’s worth it for the company and the people I work with.

What are the main duties of your job role?

My main duties include:

-Assessing vehicle damage and creating accurate repair estimates.

-Identifying both visible and underlying damage.

-Ensuring all repairs follow manufacturer guidelines and brand-specific methods.

-Liaising with customers, insurers, and the workshop team to keep everything running smoothly.

What do you enjoy most about your job role?

Learning something new every day. The automotive industry is always changing, and I love keeping up with new technology

and repair techniques. The most rewarding part is seeing a customer’s reaction when we return their car looking as good as new.

What is great about working for Poole Accident Repair?

The company has a fantastic team culture. Everyone is supportive, approachable, and passionate about what they do.

There’s also a real emphasis on quality and customer care, which makes it a great place to work and grow.

What are your future career goals?

I’m happy in my role as a VDA and want to keep progressing, gaining experience, and developing my skills to be the best I can be.

Tell us something interesting about you…

My dad owns a few classic cars, and we often go to car shows together. It’s great fun, and it’s something that keeps my love for cars alive outside of work too!

Accurate at time of publication [December 2025].