Area Sales Manager – South of England
Automotive Cooling & HVAC Systems
Region: South of England and South Wales – ideally located within 1 hour of Worcester office.
Salary: Up to £55,000 + 15% Bonus + Hybrid Company Car
Sector: Automotive Aftermarket & Distribution
Employer: Premium Italian Manufacturer – Specialist Cooling Technologies
About the Company:
Our client is a premium Italian manufacturer renowned for its innovation, craftsmanship, and performance in automotive cooling technologies, HVAC systems, and air movement devices. With manufacturing facilities near Milan and a strong heritage in the West Midlands, the company combines Italian engineering excellence with a commitment to quality, reliability, and customer partnership.
The Role:
As Area Sales Manager, you will be responsible for developing and managing sales across the South West, South Wales and South East England regions. Initially you will work closely with aftermarket customers, dealers, retailers and distribution partners, building long-term relationships and driving new opportunities for a range of specialist thermal management and HVAC products. Long term there will be a plan to move to OEM customers as the account base grows.
This is a hands‑on, field‑based role requiring a technically competent and commercially driven sales professional with the motivation to cover a large territory and stay overnight as required.
Key Responsibilities:
* Develop and execute a territory sales plan to achieve growth and profitability targets.
* Manage existing accounts while identifying and securing new business opportunities across Aftermarket customers.
* Build strong, lasting relationships with Technical and Engineering teams, being able to work on specifications, plans and technical plans as well as commercial deals.
* Provide technical advice and support, liaising with engineering and production teams in Italy and the UK.
* Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and customer requirements to inform strategic planning.
* Represent the brand at trade events, exhibitions, and customer visits across the region.
Candidate requirements:
* Proven track record in automotive sales, selling either for a distributor at present or selling into the automotive aftermarket. Ideally 3 years + experience
* Technical qualification is desirable but not essential (e.g. Degree or HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience).
* Strong technical understanding of automotive cooling, HVAC, or thermal management systems.
* Highly motivated self-starter with excellent organisational and communication skills.
* Comfortable managing a large geographical territory with regular travel and occasional overnight stays.
* Commercially astute, target-driven, and passionate about delivering results.
Package and Benefits:
* Basic salary £45,000 – £55,000 DoE
* 15% annual bonus
* Company car and comprehensive benefits package
* Opportunity to represent a premium European brand with a strong UK presence and growth ambitions
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