Sales Director in Manchester

Sales Director
Manchester | Hybrid Working | Up to £110,000 Basic + OTE to be Developed
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious and commercially driven Sales Director to join a growing business operating within the branded merchandise, clothing and promotional products sector.
The business has built an impressive portfolio of clients, including PepsiCo, Manchester City, Manchester United, Mercedes-Benz and Kylie Minogue. With continued growth, a newly secured manufacturing site and ambitious plans for the future, the business is now looking to take its commercial offering to the next level.
A major part of this next stage of growth will be the development of licensing opportunities. The business sees significant potential in this area and is looking for someone with the expertise, industry relationships and commercial understanding to help make it happen.
This is a strategic leadership position for someone who understands the retail and licensing landscape, has established relationships with key retailers and decision-makers, and can identify and convert new commercial opportunities.
The Role
Reporting to the directors, you will take ownership of the sales function, developing the existing team, shaping the commercial strategy and identifying new opportunities to accelerate business growth.
A key priority will be to explore and develop the licensing side of the business. You will bring an understanding of how licensing works, the relationships needed to access retail opportunities and the commercial experience to help the business establish itself in this market.
Alongside this, you will lead the existing sales team, drive new business personally and build on the company's already impressive client portfolio.
This is an opportunity to make a real impact within an ambitious, growing business, with the backing of the directors and the opportunity to shape the next phase of its development.
Key Responsibilities
Sales Leadership & Strategy
Lead and develop the existing sales function, providing direction, structure and commercial focus.
Review current sales performance, identify opportunities for improvement and develop a strategy to support continued growth.
Set clear objectives and ensure the sales team is working towards agreed commercial targets.
Work closely with the directors to shape and deliver the wider business growth strategy.
Identify new markets, revenue streams and opportunities to strengthen the company's market position.
Licensing & Retail Development
Lead the development of the company's licensing strategy, identifying opportunities within the retail and licensed merchandise markets.
Use your knowledge of the licensing landscape to advise the business on how best to enter and develop this area.
Leverage established relationships with retailers, buyers, licensing teams and key decision-makers to open doors and secure opportunities.
Identify potential licensing partnerships and develop relationships with relevant brands and rights holders.
Help build the commercial framework, relationships and processes needed to turn licensing opportunities into sustainable revenue.
New Business & Commercial Growth
Personally identify, develop and secure new business opportunities.
Build on the company's existing client relationships and impressive portfolio.
Develop relationships with major brands, retailers and other strategic partners.
Identify opportunities to expand existing accounts and introduce new products and services.
Take a hands-on approach to developing a strong pipeline and converting opportunities into profitable business.
Team Development & Performance
Lead, motivate and develop the existing