Gareth Morgan, Managing Director of Q Drive, set some time aside to tell us what it takes to become an executive chauffeur …

“The job of an executive chauffeur involves the professional driving of guests and clients to and from destinations. A fair amount of patience is needed, as well as a hospitable disposition,” explains Gareth. “The pros of this job are that you are always meeting new people, seeing new places and driving luxury cars!”

“The minimum educational requirement is Matric, and the drivers need public driving permits (PDP). Studies in hospitality and tourism would be an added bonus and would offer better career opportunities,” says Gareth. “Some clients may need personal protection, so any certified training in personal protection is also beneficial.”

As far as earnings go, someone straight out of school can probably expect to earn around R3 500 per month, possibly with incentives for the number of trips done or targets met. Someone who has experience in other complementary industries, such as tourism or personal protection, can look to earn between R5 500 and    R12 000, depending on qualifications and previous work experience.

Well-spoken, outgoing people, who are confident of their skills, and have patience and a professional attitude, would be ideal for this career. A good understanding of time and a relaxed, controlled demeanour are important, as traffic can cause the best of people to become irritated! You should know your area well and keep up-to-date with venues and places of interest. You should also have a good understanding of the car you’re driving and know the basic maintenance

An average day usually begins around 07:00. The drivers must ensure that their suits are pressed and shirts ironed. They then inspect the car to make sure it’s clean – inside and out – and check that the newspapers in the car are up-to-date.

When he has collected the client, the chauffeur opens the door for him or her, and then safely drives to the destination. Depending on whether it’s a return service or not, the driver may have to wait at the destination until the client is finished and ready to return. Shifts often involve long hours, being on call, and working weekends and public holidays. For the duration of the shift, the drivers are expected to cater to the client’s requests until shift change. Should the client’s time extend over the shift change, however, the chauffeur is expected to stay with the client until the job is done.

“This work does have its stressful moments,” says Gareth. “You work to deadlines and are expected to be punctual. Clients often run late and the onus is then on you to make up the lost time, without speeding or breaking any traffic laws!”

“You should only consider becoming a chauffeur, if you have a passion for driving and dealing with various types of people – from relaxed to demanding – and if you’re not afraid of hard work and long hours. You get to meet great people and interact with them; it’s important, however, to remember that you are employed to drive, and main-tain professionalism and discretion at all times. Drivers often get good tips from the clients too,” he smiles. 

Chantelle Gradidge