Purpose of the Role
The Sales Manager is responsible for leading and developing the sales function in line with company objectives and customer expectations. This role ensures that sales strategies, processes, and performance meet business growth targets through effective customer relationship management, market analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Sales & Business Development
* Drive opportunities through the sales funnel from initial enquiry to purchase order, ensuring repeat business and customer satisfaction.
* Develop a strong understanding of customer requirements and work with Engineering to create tailored proposals and quotations.
* Price projects using the company cost model, securing approval from Operations and Engineering.
* Assess contractual terms and conditions to identify and mitigate risks.
* Maintain and grow relationships with existing and prospective customers through regular visits and communication.
Customer Relationship Management
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date records within the CRM system (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot).
* Ensure CRM data quality to support forecasting, pipeline management, and performance reporting.
* Build and sustain strong relationships with OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and engineering teams.
Commercial & Analytical Focus
* Use ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) to track inventory, production schedules, and order fulfilment.
* Align sales forecasts with manufacturing capacity and business targets.
* Collaborate with Finance and Product teams on pricing strategies and margin optimisation.
* Monitor market trends, sustainability developments, and emerging technologies.
Marketing & Brand Management
* Manage company marketing channels including the website, social media, news updates, and the info@ email account.
* Support brand awareness and consistency across all communications.
* Organise and attend key industry events, trade shows, and conferences to promote company capabilities.
Collaboration & Leadership
* Support the Sales Director in achieving business development objectives.
* Work closely with Operations and Engineering to align sales with production and delivery.
* Lead, coach, and support junior sales representatives.
Essential Criteria
* Proven experience in technical or solution-based sales, ideally in composites, aerospace, automotive, or defence.
* Strong understanding of composite materials, applications, and manufacturing processes.
* Ability to translate technical information into clear commercial value.
* Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
* Proficiency with CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite).
* Strong commercial awareness with experience in pricing and contracts.
* Collaborative approach with cross-functional teams.
* Customer-focused and relationship-driven.
* Well-organised, with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
* Willingness to travel for customer visits and industry events.
Desirable Criteria
* Degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Materials Science, Business, or a related field.
* Experience leading or mentoring sales teams.
* Knowledge of sustainability trends in advanced materials.
* Experience in marketing, including website or social media management.
* Previous involvement in trade shows or technical conferences.
PACKAGE
* Salary depending on experience
* 32 Holidays annually
After successful 6-month probationary period:
* Vitality private healthcare
* Contributory pension scheme
* Employee life cover