General Manager in Grays

Join Brayleys – Driving Excellence in Automotive Retail. Brayleys is a modern, fast-growing automotive dealer group with a strong presence across the UK. We represent some of the most respected brands in the industry including Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Kia, Renault, Suzuki, Mazda, Dacia and Honda Motorcycles. Since opening our first dealership in St Albans in 2003, we’ve expanded to over 30 locations nationwide, and we’re not slowing down.

We’re building something ambitious. Our goal is to become one of the UK’s top 10 AM 100 dealer groups, and we know that getting there depends on hiring and developing the very best people. That’s why we place huge value on creating a workplace where individuals feel supported, trusted and recognised. We invest in training, structured career development and tailored programmes such as our Rising Stars and Leadership Development initiatives, designed to help people progress and thrive at every level.

At Brayleys, we believe a great business starts with a great culture. Every team member plays a part in our success, and that shared sense of purpose runs through every showroom, workshop and office. Whether you’re just starting out or joining us with years of experience, you’ll find a collaborative, energised environment with plenty of opportunity to grow.

We’re also committed to building a more inclusive and representative industry. As a Gold Member of the Automotive 30% Club, we are actively working to improve gender balance across the business and champion more diverse leadership across the automotive sector. That commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. We’ve been officially recognised by Great Place to Work as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces 2025, as well as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Wellbeing and Best Workplaces for Development. These awards are based entirely on what our people say about working here, and we’re proud of the culture they’ve helped shape.

If you’re looking to join a business that’s ambitious, inclusive and committed to doing things the right way, Brayleys is a place where you can build a meaningful career.

The Role: Brayley’s Cars Limited is seeking a highly skilled and experienced General Sales Manager to oversee the daily operations of our Suzuki dealership in Thurrock. In this pivotal leadership role, you will be responsible for ensuring the dealership's operations are fully aligned with its strategic objectives.

As General Sales Manager, you will lead a high-performing team, optimise business outcomes, and ensure the efficient and effective running of all dealership functions. This role demands a results-driven leader with exceptional business acumen, superior organisational skills, and a proven ability to foster collaboration across all levels of the organisation.

Reporting directly to the Head of Business, this full-time, permanent position provides significant opportunities for professional growth and career progression within one of the region’s most respected and innovative automotive retail groups.

What are the Key Accountabilities? Your key accountabilities will span across strategic, operational, and financial domains, requiring a hands‑on approach to managing day‑to‑day operations while steering the business toward long‑term success. Supported by your Head of Business and the resources of our head office functions, you will be expected to:

• Lead, motivate, and develop the dealership team to achieve performance objectives.
• Deliver agreed levels of profitability, customer satisfaction, and operational standards.
• Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements (including FCA and Health & Safety).
• Recruit, induct, train, and retain high‑calibre staff across all departments.
• Promote and uphold company values and the highest standards of conduct and professionalism.
• Drive the implementation of HR policies and processes, including digital documentation platforms (e.g., WISE).
• Ensure dealership performance meets or exceeds manufacturer standards (e.g., CVS, CVA).

Qualifications and Experiences: To thrive in this role, it is crucial that you have a broad leadership background, along with the ability to consistently incorporate the following attributes into your daily routine:

• Communicates clearly and manages workload efficiently.
• Supports a structured, deadline‑driven approach to management.
• Demonstrates strong budgetary and commercial control.
• Identifies and exploits revenue and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Provides clear leadership, coaching, and development opportunities.
• Manages performance effectively and fairly.
• Promotes teamwork and recognition across departments.
• Leads and drives sales performance through strategic planning.
• Monitors market conditions and responds proactively.
• Maintains a strong dealership image and customer engagement.

In addition to the qualifications listed above, you must also demonstrate:

• Proven general or sales management experience within the automotive industry.
• Solid understanding of P&L and standard accounting practices.
• Knowledge of franchise and manufacturer standards.
• Up‑to‑date understanding of legislative requirements.
• FCA General Insurance qualification (renewed annually).

If this sounds like you, please submit your application today to be considered for this exciting opportunity.