Assistant Branch Manager

Independent Builders Merchant Group; Hastings; Hybrid; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Holiday entitlement

Staff discount

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Training and career development

Progression pathway to Branch Manager

Job summary

Parker Building Supplies, part of IBMG, is recruiting for an Assistant Branch Manager at the Hastings branch. This is a second-in-command role, working alongside the Branch Manager to lead the team, drive sales and ensure daily operations run smoothly.

You will step up in the Manager's absence and have a clear pathway to branch management. We value customer service, leadership and a proactive approach in a busy trade counter environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in builders' merchant or trade counter is preferred.
• Clear ambition to progress into branch management.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the team and drive sales across counter, yard and delivery.
• Support day-to-day branch operations and health & safety.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and quotations.
• Act as Branch Manager in their absence and ensure smooth running.
• Motivate and develop colleagues to high performance.
• Build strong customer relationships and grow business.
• Encourage repeat business and re-engage inactive customers.
• Monitor stock, merchandising and branch targets.

Skills

Sales experience

Customer service

Leadership

Job description

Hastings | Full Time, Permanent
Parker Building Supplies (Part of IBMG)

Ready for the Next Step in Your Merchant Career?

Since 1984, Parker Building Supplies has been supporting trade and retail customers across the South East with quality building materials and exceptional service. As part of the Independent Builders Merchants Group (IBMG), we combine local knowledge with the strength of a leading independent merchant network.

We're looking for an ambitious Assistant Branch Manager to join our Hastings branch and play a key role in its ongoing success.

About the Role

This is the second-in-command position within the branch and an excellent opportunity for someone looking to progress into branch management.

Working closely with the Branch Manager, you'll help lead the team, drive sales, support day-to-day operations, and ensure customers receive outstanding service. When the Branch Manager is absent, you'll confidently step up and take responsibility for the running of the branch.

What You'll Be Doing

• Deliver excellent customer service and drive sales performance
• Serve customers, provide quotations and convert enquiries into sales
• Support the day-to-day management of the branch
• Lead the branch in the Branch Manager's absence
• Support, motivate and develop colleagues across the counter, yard and delivery teams
• Build strong customer relationships and identify opportunities to grow business
• Encourage repeat business and help re-engage inactive customers
• Monitor stock levels, availability and merchandising standards
• Ensure high standards of health & safety and housekeeping are maintained
• Help deliver branch targets and commercial objectives

What We're Looking For

• Previous sales, trade counter or supervisory experience
• Builders' merchant, plumbing or heating industry experience is highly desirable
• A strong desire to progress into branch management
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Confident decision-maker who remains calm under pressure
• Positive, hands‑on leadership style
• Self‑motivated with a proactive approach
• Ability to lead by example and support a high-performing team

Working Hours

Monday to Friday – 07:00 to 17:00

Alternate Saturdays – 08:00 to 12:00

What's in It for You?

• Generous holiday entitlement, increasing with service
• Staff discount across all IBMG brands
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Ongoing training and career development opportunities
• Supportive and close-knit branch team
• Clear progression pathway to Branch Manager

Why Join Parker Building Supplies?

At Parker Building Supplies, we invest in our people. Many of our managers started on the trade counter, in the warehouse or out in the yard. If you're looking for a business where hard work, commitment and ambition are recognised and rewarded, this could be the perfect next step.