Sales Manager

Sales Manager

Full-Time 54000 - 66000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Howards Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic sales team and drive exceptional customer experiences in the automotive industry.
  • Company: Join Howards Motor Group, an award-winning family-owned business with a strong reputation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, uncapped bonuses, enhanced holidays, and continuous training.
  • Other info: Be part of a supportive team that celebrates success and offers career growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a leadership role at one of the UK's top motor groups.
  • Qualifications: Proven managerial experience in automotive sales and a passion for customer service.

The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.

Howards Motor Group, an award-winning family-owned regional group, is searching for a dynamic Sales Manager to join our team. Representing 14 brands across 27 dealerships in Somerset, Dorset and Devon, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer experiences. Having secured the #1 Reputation score in the AM100 for two consecutive years, this is your chance to lead an ambitious and customer-focused team at one of the UK’s leading motor groups. Having a culture of nurturing from within for organic operational line managers, this is a rare opportunity to join our group in a leadership role!

What You’ll Be Doing

As Sales Manager, you will lead the sales department across new, used, commercial vehicles, ensuring volume and profit targets are consistently achieved. Your focus will be on creating exceptional customer experiences, developing and inspiring your team, and maintaining strong relationships with both customers and manufacturers. Key responsibilities include:

  • Setting, managing and delivering sales volume and profitability targets.
  • Driving customer satisfaction and retention through best-in-class sales processes.
  • Leading, coaching and developing your sales team to achieve individual and departmental goals.
  • Monitoring stock levels, ensuring effective display and preparation of vehicles.
  • Identifying and maximising opportunities in finance, accessories and add-on products.
  • Maintaining compliance with manufacturer standards, company policies, and financial regulations.
  • Collaborating across departments to deliver seamless customer experiences.

What We’re Looking For

To thrive in this role, you’ll need:

  • Proven managerial experience within an automotive retail sales environment.
  • A track record of achieving volume and profitability targets.
  • A passion for customer service excellence, with the ability to build trust and rapport.
  • Exceptional leadership and communication skills to inspire your team.
  • Commercial awareness and the ability to identify market opportunities.
  • High levels of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Why Join Team Howards?

We understand that your success is our success, so we offer a package designed to help you thrive:

  • A competitive salary with uncapped bonus opportunities, meaning your earning potential is truly limitless.
  • Enhanced Holiday Allowance, including your birthday off and increasing with service.
  • Continuous training and career development, giving you the tools to grow and succeed.
  • Leadership Programme Training.
  • Life Assurance Scheme, providing financial security for your loved ones.
  • Market Leading Employee Assistance Scheme (including Cancer Care).
  • Pension Scheme with a trusted provider.
  • Discounted MOT & Service costs for you and your family.
  • Regular staff social events to celebrate team successes.
  • Recognition programmes, such as Employee of the Month and Long Service Awards.
  • Free refreshments to keep you energised throughout your day.

At Howards Motor Group, people are at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s delivering excellence to our customers or providing opportunities for our employees to grow, we are committed to making every experience exceptional. Joining us means becoming part of a forward-thinking team where your hard work is celebrated and rewarded. If you’re ready to make your mark in a business that values innovation, leadership, and exceptional service, apply now to join Team Howards as our next Sales Manager.

How to Apply

Click the link below to submit your CV and take the first step toward an exciting new chapter in your career. Closing Date: Midnight on 30th September 2026.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. If you require any accommodations during the application process, please let us know.

Sales Manager employer: Howards Group

Howards Group is an exceptional employer, renowned for its supportive family-oriented culture and commitment to employee well-being. Located in Yeovil, this award-winning business not only offers a competitive salary but also prioritises work-life balance with no weekend shifts, fostering an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. With opportunities for growth and development, joining Howards Group means becoming part of a dedicated team that values your contributions and encourages your success.

Howards Group

Contact Details:

Howards Group Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Sales Manager

Leverage Your Network

In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!

Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results

When targeting a full-time role like Sales Manager at Howards Group, presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!

Engage with Sales Communities

Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.

Direct Applications Matter

While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including Howards Group. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Sales Manager. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!

We think you need these skills to ace Sales Manager

Managerial Experience
Sales Volume Target Achievement
Profitability Target Achievement
Customer Service Excellence
Leadership Skills
Communication Skills
Commercial Awareness

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!

Tailor Your Message for Howards Group:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Howards Group. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!

Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!

Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!

How to prepare for a job interview at Howards Group

Know Your Sales Methodologies

Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show Howards Group that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.

Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills

Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show Howards Group that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.

Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios

In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!

Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision

Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with Howards Group’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.