Van Sales Manager

Manage a fleet of Van Salesmen and Drivers/Loaders in order to maximize the down market potential of the Company’s represented brands. Must be able to work on a shift system (Flexibility required - 6:00 am and based on completion of Sales Route)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

•  Work with the Sales Directors on annual budgets for the vans. Monitor collections with the Van Sales representatives at all times and get involved where necessary.
• Manage accounts receivables within defined collection periods as well as ensuring daily reconciliations of vans and routes; Manage Profit & Loss Accounts.
• Ensure maximum distribution of brands throughout trade.
• Report on departmental activities, issues, plans and performance to Senior Management.
• Plan daily, weekly and fortnightly routes for the Van Salesmen.
• Manage Van Sales team effectively to achieve the monthly targets.
•  Hold regular sales meetings with the team in order to appraise them of their performance, introduce new products (with Brand Managers), pass on Company directives and resolve day-to-day problems etc.
• Visit the trade to ensure it is being serviced in a timely and proper manner and to resolve any problems that may arise with the customers, building and promoting strong business relationships with customers.
• Sustain rapport with external and internal customers by making periodic visits; exploring specific needs, conducting negotiations and anticipating new opportunities
• Oversee and participate in the coordination of sales promotion activities, including proper use of in-store signs advertising sales and promotions.
• Ensure Vans sales fleet is maintained and always in a good working condition.
• Maintain and manage the department by overseeing the recruitment, selection training and developing personal growth opportunities for employees with the assistance of the HR Department. 
• Accomplish staff results by communicating job expectations, planning, monitoring and appraising job results; Develop staff through coaching, counselling and discipline. 
• Manage the department in line with the established policies, procedures and standards.
• Work closely with marketing personnel to develop proposals for customers.
• Establish strategic goals by assessing information, identifying and evaluating trends, defining objectives and evaluating outcomes.
•  Accomplish financial objectives by forecasting requirements, preparing budgets, scheduling expenditures, analysing variances and initiating corrective actions. 
•  Establish an annual department plan by developing sales strategies, objectives, action plans and assignments.
•  Assist in other areas of work based on the needs of the department and any other area as necessary in support of Company activities.
•  All responsibilities and accountabilities must be executed in accordance with the company’s Customer Service Management System (CSMS), Quality Health and Safety Environment (QHSE) and Business Continuity Management System (BCMS) policies and practices.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

Requirements

• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Leadership skills
• Customer focused
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment with little supervision

Qualifications & Experience

• First Degree in Marketing or Business Management or a related subject
• 3-5 years similar experience in a comparable position and industry

Computer Skills

• Proficient in the use of MS Office Suite (2016)