Michael Clarke Takes Over Garage at Clarke’s Service Centre

Karen Graham

Succession planning has never been a concern for local business owner Bill Clarke. For many years, he has quietly prepared son Michael for the job he assumed this week as owner of the garage.

Michael Clarke takes over the reins of the garage business from his father Bill who has operated the business for the past 43 years. Photo: Karen Graham.

Michael Clarke takes over the reins of the garage business from his father Bill who has operated the business for the past 43 years. Photo: Karen Graham.2016201

Bill remembers quite clearly the day he took ownership of the garage on Tupper Street in Millbrook: May 2nd, 1972. He describes taking his last pay cheque from his previous job and depositing it into the till at the garage he purchased from its previous owner, Jack Draper, to provide a float. On Monday, his son Michael has a similar sensation as he signed insurance policies, supplier agreements and bank account forms to take ownership of the garage his father has operated for the past 43 years. Michael is no stranger to the business, having worked as a mechanic there since 1996. He is excited to assume the reins of this successful local business and does not expect much to change in his ongoing duties except he will have more paperwork! With two apprentices on staff, Mike will continue to supervise and perform mechanical duties but will now be calling the shots on the administrative side as well. There are no major changes planned for the immediate future but he will certainly put his own stamp on the business as he develops an appreciation for the scope of decisions that come with ownership. Advice will still be down the hall as Bill continues to manage other business interests including the adjacent restaurant and the retail outlet up the street. Congratulations, Mike!

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