Sales Manager

About the job

Job Title: Merchant Sales
Location: Gloucester (Branch-Based with Regional Customer Engagement)
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive + Benefits (Dependent on Experience)

About the Role

We are supporting a leading manufacturing and distribution business in their search for a Merchant Sales professional to manage their Gloucester branch. This role is focused on driving sales performance, developing merchant and trade relationships, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the branch.

This is a commercial, customer-facing position with responsibility for both branch management and sales growth. You will lead a small team, support existing accounts, and proactively develop new business within the local and regional market. It’s ideal for someone with experience in plastics, building products, construction materials, or trade distribution who understands merchant and contractor channels.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the branch to achieve agreed sales, margin, and service targets.
• Develop new business opportunities with merchants, contractors, and trade customers.
• Manage and grow existing accounts through regular contact and strong relationships.
• Oversee daily branch operations including stock control, service standards, and compliance.
• Motivate, support, and develop branch team members to drive performance.
• Negotiate pricing and commercial terms with customers and suppliers.
• Monitor local competitors and market activity to inform strategy.
• Ensure accurate reporting, forecasting, and CRM updates.
• Support the introduction of new products and sales initiatives.
• Maintain a safe, efficient, and customer-focused working environment.

Key Skills and Experience

• Experience in plastics, building products, construction materials, or trade merchanting.
• Proven background in branch management, merchant sales, or commercial leadership.
• Strong sales and account management skills with a track record of growth.
• Good understanding of trade buying behaviours and merchant/distribution channels.
• Confident people leader with experience managing small teams.
• Commercial awareness with strong organisational ability.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to engage with customers regionally.

Personal Attributes

• Sales-focused and commercially driven.
• Hands-on leader with a customer-first mindset.
• Confident communicator and relationship builder.
• Proactive, organised, and solutions-focused.
• Professional, positive, and team-oriented.