Sales Manager - Retail

I am currently recruiting for a well-known high end retail business based in the Sharston area. This role is looking for someone with experience in Sales working with giftware/high end retail. My client is a leader in creative greetings and giftware, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Sales & Partnership Lead for their trade business . This strategic and hands-on position will report directly to the Creative Director/Owner and form a key part of the senior leadership team, working alongside the Finance Director, Senior Buyer/Merchandiser, and Head of Production. The Sales & Partnership Lead will be responsible for driving sales growth, managing and developing our sales team, and strengthening our house accounts, particularly in London, during an exciting period of transition and opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

· Team Management:Lead, motivate, and support the sales team, directly managing the Sales and Admin Executive and Sales Executive. Conduct twice-weekly virtual 'water cooler' calls when working remotely, ensuring engagement, alignment, and high performance.

· Sales Process Implementation: Develop, implement, and maintain robust sales processes and procedures to streamline operations, enhance customer experience, and drive sales effectiveness.

· Sales Agent Management:Oversee the transition away from the London sales agent, ensuring minimal disruption to business continuity. Build and nurture strong relationships with key London house accounts and manage ongoing relationships with any external sales agents.

· Sales Growth: Maintain and grow greeting card sales channels. Develop and expand house account and export sales for the Giftware range, identifying new opportunities and fostering long-term partnerships.

· Leadership Collaboration:Collaborate closely with the leadership team on product development, customer feedback, and strategic planning. Provide market insight and contribute to key business decisions.

· Reporting and Analysis:Monitor sales performance, prepare regular reports, and present actionable insights to the leadership team.

Required Skills and Experience

· Proven track record in sales leadership, preferably within the creative, greetings, or giftware sector.

· Strong experience in managing and developing sales teams, both in-person and remotely.

· Demonstrated ability to implement and refine sales processes and procedures.

· Excellent relationship-building and account management skills, with experience transitioning and managing house accounts.

· Strategic thinker with hands-on approach; comfortable operating at both a leadership and operational level.

· Data-driven, with strong analytical and reporting capabilities.

· Collaborative, engaging communication style, able to influence and work effectively with senior leadership and cross-functional teams.

· Experience contributing to product development and leveraging customer feedback for continuous improvement.

Working Arrangements

· This role is open to remote and local candidates, with the expectation of working from the office in South Manchester for a minimum of 4-5 days per month (travel expenses covered as per company policy).

· Occasional travel to visit key accounts or attend industry events as required.

Please note the successful candidate for this role must come from a Sales background working in luxury giftware
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed