About Lawsons
Lawsons is the UK’s largest independent supplier of fencing, timber and building materials. Established in 1921, we operate across London and the South East of England with over 35 branches, more than 700 colleagues and a multi‑million pound turnover. We are committed to delivering high quality products and exceptional service to both trade and retail customers.
The Role
This Management Cover - Southern Region role supports branch management across the Southern region by providing temporary leadership cover and operational support during periods of absence, peak demand or transitional change. The postholder will travel between branches as required, lead teams to deliver excellent customer service and commercial performance, and ensure compliance with Lawsons’ standards and procedures. The role requires strong people management and commercial awareness.
Working hours
Full time, permanent position. Working hours will be Monday - Friday 07.30 - 17.00, plus 1 in 2 Sat 08.00 - 12.00.
What’s In It For You
* Competitive salary depending on experience (£35,000 - £36,000)
* 27 days’ holiday plus UK Bank Holidays and one celebration day
* Pension scheme
* Death in service benefit
* Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support via the My Reward platform
* Comprehensive onboarding, training and career development opportunities
* Opportunity to work across multiple branches and broaden management experience
Main Responsibilities
* Provide interim management cover for branch managers, taking responsibility for day‑to‑day operations, team leadership and customer service delivery.
* Drive branch sales, margins and gross profit, supporting colleagues to achieve commercial targets.
* Coach, develop and support branch teams, ensuring consistent application of Lawsons’ standards, merchandising and customer service practices.
* Manage staffing, rotas and performance, including conducting briefings, 1:1s and supporting recruitment as required.
* Oversee health & safety, stock control and loss prevention measures, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements.
* Liaise with depot, yard and delivery teams to ensure efficient fulfilment of customer orders and timely deliveries/collections.
* Monitor and report on branch performance, providing actionable feedback to area management and recommending improvements.
* Support local marketing and promotional activity, ensuring merchandising and point‑of‑sale materials are implemented effectively.
* Maintain professional relationships with customers, resolving escalations promptly and representing Lawsons positively on site.
Key Accountabilities
* Deliver consistent branch performance during periods of cover, meeting sales and margin targets where applicable.
* Ensure teams operate in line with company procedures, audit and cash handling requirements.
* Promote a positive customer experience and resolve customer queries or escalations in a timely manner.
* Provide regular feedback to Area/Regional Managers on local market conditions, staffing needs and operational issues.
* Adhere to Lawsons Best Practice, Standards and Company Policies at all times.
Person Specification
* Proven experience in branch or store management within builders’ merchants, timber, landscaping or related sectors is essential.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop teams across multiple sites.
* Commercially focused with good numeracy and the ability to interpret sales, margin and stock reports.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to build rapport with colleagues and customers quickly.
* Organised and resilient with the ability to prioritise workload and manage time effectively when travelling between branches.
* IT literate and comfortable using company systems, tills, handheld devices and reporting tools.
* Flexible, reliable and prepared to work varied hours, including occasional Saturdays and travel across the Southern region.
* Full UK driving licence desirable as travel between branches is required.
Why join Lawsons?
* Be part of a well‑established and respected company with clear career progression pathways.
* Work in a varied role with exposure to multiple branches and the opportunity to broaden management experience.
* Access to company benefits including pension, employee assistance programme and training.
* A supportive team environment where your contribution is recognised and valued.
Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are adaptable, customer‑focused and enjoy leading teams in a fast‑paced environment, we would like to hear from you.
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