Full job descriptionSALES MANAGER
Location: Southampton, Hampshire
Salary: £40,000 - £65,000 OTE + Basic Salary + Company Car + Benefits
OVERVIEW
An established automotive retailer is seeking an experienced and driven Sales Manager to lead a high-performing sales team in Southampton.
This is a key leadership role within a busy franchised dealership environment, responsible for delivering strong used and new vehicle performance, maximising profitability, and ensuring an exceptional customer experience throughout the sales process.
The successful candidate will be a hands-on leader who can motivate, develop and manage a sales team while maintaining strong commercial control of the department.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Lead, motivate and manage the sales team to achieve and exceed targets.
• Oversee daily sales operations, ensuring smooth and efficient showroom performance.
• Drive new and used vehicle sales performance and profitability.
• Manage stock profiles, pricing strategies and vehicle presentation standards.
• Maximise finance, insurance and value-added product penetration.
• Monitor and analyse sales performance, KPIs and conversion rates.
• Conduct deal reviews and support the sales team in closing opportunities.
• Recruit, train and develop sales executives to improve team capability.
• Ensure compliance with FCA regulations and dealership processes.
• Work closely with senior management to achieve departmental objectives.
• Maintain high levels of customer satisfaction and brand reputation.
CANDIDATE PROFILE
• Proven experience as a Sales Manager, Assistant Sales Manager or Senior Sales Controller within a franchised dealership.
• Strong leadership and coaching abilities with a track record of developing high-performing teams.
• Commercially focused with strong understanding of used car operations and stock management.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to analyse data and drive performance improvements.
• FCA compliance knowledge essential.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE
• Experience managing both new and used vehicle operations.
• Strong manufacturer relationship experience.
• Proven success in improving departmental profitability and efficiency.
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
• Vehicle sales volume and profitability.
• Used car stock turn and margin performance.
• Finance and insurance penetration.
• Customer satisfaction scores.
• Conversion rates and enquiry management.
• Team performance and retention.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
• Strong leader and motivator.
• Commercially driven.
• Hands-on and proactive.
• Results-focused.
• Confident and influential communicator.
• High standards and attention to detail.
• Customer-focused with a professional approach.