UK Sales Operations Manager

About Changan

Changan Automobile, a prominent Chinese automotive manufacturer with a global footprint, is expanding its presence in the European market. Having established design and R&D centres in Europe since the early 2000s, Changan is now reinforcing its commitment to the region with a new European headquarters in Munich. Starting this summer, the company will launch operations across various European markets, introducing a line-up of vehicles that combine European design sophistication with cutting-edge Chinese technology. Focused on innovation and quality, Changan is excited to offer intelligent, stylish, and sustainable mobility solutions tailored to meet the needs of both Europe and the UK.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Sales Operations Manager to support the launch of the Changan brand in the UK. This is a unique and exciting opportunity to join the business at a pivotal time as it launches its operations in the UK. The role requires a proactive, hands-on approach, along with drive and enthusiasm. As Sales Operations Manager, you will bring the necessary expertise to develop an efficient sales function that integrates seamlessly with European and global systems and processes. You’ll be a key voice within the business, ensuring the smooth coordination of production planning, logistics operations, and sales delivery. This role is essential in achieving the sales goals aligned with Changan’s innovative product line-up, which combines European design excellence with cutting-edge technology.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Automotive Sales & Marketing.
• Proven track record of managing automotive Sales Operations in an automotive environment.

• Detailed understanding of sales planning and forecasting methods.
• Profound understanding of regulatory requirements, vehicle registration systems and infrastructure and vehicle ownership structures etc.
• Understanding of economic and other factors impacting industry volumes and forecasts.
• Strong numerical ability and understanding of spreadsheet and database tools.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with a strategic mindset and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
• Ability to inspire, lead and motivate a small team.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and deliver cross functional objectives.

• Implement sales planning processes to manage production planning, National and Dealer stocking, vehicle availability and prioritisation.
• Effectively manage planning and reporting processes to ensure consistency of supply and performance.
• Lead the industry and internal forecasting processes across all channels.
• Manage logistics providers to distribute stock in a timely and efficient manner.
• Understand and manage registration and regulatory requirements, working with SMMT and official regulatory authorities.
• Develop and implement processes to manage Dealer performance in-line with objectives.
• Responsibility for planning National sales targets.
• Own the production planning process, stocking, sales targets, demonstrator programmes and sales performance by channel.
• Work cross functionally with the Sales, Marketing and Finance teams in the UK, Europe and China to ensure accurate forecasting and optimal performance in terms volume and financial delivery on a weekly and monthly basis.
• Monitor and calculate Dealer payments, working with the Finance team to ensure accurate payments.
• Lead a small team to deliver the combined objectives.

• A culturally enriching role with the opportunity to build something monumental.
• A diverse, multinational team.
• Start-up energy within secure corporate structures.
• Competitive, rewarding compensation package, based on your qualifications and experience.

If you are selected for an interview, our recruitment team will contact you directly. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to inform the candidates who are not shortlisted or provide specific feedback.