Branch Manager - Battery Distribution

About the role

A reputable client in the battery distribution and wholesale sales industry, recruited through Talent Candey, is looking for an experienced, commercially driven Branch Manager to run its Nelspruit branch. The postholder takes full ownership of sales, operations and finance, leads and motivates teams, drives sales growth and manages customer relationships so the branch meets its operational and financial targets.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily branch operations, sales and warehouse teams, and coordinate sales, warehouse, dispatch and procurement activities
• Develop and implement branch sales plans, set and achieve sales, turnover and gross profit targets, and lead weekly sales meetings
• Manage wholesale customers and key accounts, conduct customer visits and monitor market trends
• Prepare annual budgets and financial forecasts, review income statements, analyse budget variances and prepare financial reports for Directors
• Oversee inventory, stock controls and warehouse operations, including stocktakes, procurement and back orders
• Lead, motivate and develop sales and warehouse staff, set performance targets and handle HR matters
• Maintain customer and supplier relationships, resolve complaints and keep accurate customer records
• Prepare monthly sales, financial and operational reports and give performance feedback to senior management

Required profile

• Relevant qualification in Sales Management, Business Management, Business Administration or a related field (essential)
• At least 10 years of senior sales and sales management experience (non-negotiable)
• At least 7 years of team management experience (non-negotiable)
• At least 7 years of inventory management and stock oversight experience (non-negotiable)
• Fluent Afrikaans (essential)
• Experience managing branch sales, operations and financial performance, and a track record of hitting sales and profit targets
• Experience with battery products, automotive aftermarket, industrial products or wholesale distribution is advantageous

Required skills

• Understanding of income statements, gross and net profit, budgets and cost management
• Setting and monitoring KPIs
• Business development, key account management and customer relationship management
• Liaising with suppliers, Head Office and senior management
• Leadership, communication, organisational and problem-solving skills