External Sales Manager

MGM Timber, part of the Donaldson Group, established in 1860, is one of the UK’s largest, privately owned timber companies. We are a family of 17 businesses and brands, ranging from B2B, retail and ecommerce, all with shared values and a common vision. We are focused on always providing a number one customer experience, embracing innovation, and doing things in a sustainable way, not just for our business but also for the communities we operate in. But most of all, our People are at the heart of everything we do, which is why we are committed to nurturing and empowering our 1,500+ colleagues across the UK.

Position Overview: The External Sales Manager will play a crucial role in driving the sales and margin performance of the branch. This role involves developing and implementing sales strategies, managing the sales team, and ensuring customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a proven track record in sales management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Meet and exceed budgeted sales and margin targets for the branch.
• Manage and implement the agreed pricing policy in conjunction with the Branch Manager.
• Monitor market price levels and develop strategies in agreement with the Branch Manager.
• Create, implement, and review the branch Sales Development Plan to enhance sales and margin performance.
• Identify and address poor sales performance in collaboration with the Branch Manager.
• Proactively maintain and support existing branch accounts while seeking out new business opportunities.
• Organise regular supplier and product training sessions for the sales team.
• Conduct regular ledger reviews with sales staff and establish actions to improve customer spend.
• Carefully manage key accounts and explore new opportunities to grow the business.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, ensuring high levels of satisfaction.

Skills and Experience:

• Excellent accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proven track record in delivering sales and margin targets.
• Ability to motivate and manage a sales team effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate at all levels.
• Ability to organise and prioritise workload efficiently.
• Adaptable and able to handle changing priorities and workloads.
• Tact, discretion, and good judgment in decision-making.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to create, implement, and manage a branch Sales Development Plan.
• Skilled at providing pragmatic and commercial advice.
• Proven influencing and negotiating abilities.
• Proactive and able to use own initiative to drive results.
• A strong desire to learn and develop within the role.
• Collaborative and supportive of colleagues.
• A ‘can-do’ attitude that drives improved sales and margin performance.
• Industry experience is preferred but not essential.

What We Offer:

• Discretionary bonus scheme.
• Opportunities for career development within a reputable and growing organisation.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• A catalogue of additional benefits available to purchase such as critical illness cover, cycle to work scheme and additional holidays.

Work Hours: This full-time role entails 41.5 hours per week, providing a stable schedule with weekends free for your leisure. Work hours are Monday to Thursday from 7.30am to 5pm and Friday from 7.30am to 4pm. We can also consider part-time hours via job share, shorter working days or fewer days each week. Please let us know any considerations when applying to this vacancy.