Role Overview
The General Sales Manager is responsible for leading and driving the performance of the Sales Department, delivering profitable growth through new and used vehicle sales, finance & insurance penetration, customer satisfaction, and team development. You will set the sales strategy, manage departmental KPIs, and ensure compliance with manufacturer and FCA standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Sales Performance & Strategy
- Lead, motivate, and manage the New and Used Car Sales teams to exceed volume, margin, and KPI targets
- Develop and implement sales strategies aligned with manufacturer objectives and dealership goals
- Maximise profitability through effective stock management, pricing strategies, and deal structure
- Monitor and analyse sales performance, forecasting accurately and taking corrective action where required
- Finance, Insurance & Compliance
- Drive F&I performance, ensuring strong penetration and product compliance
- Ensure full adherence to FCA regulations, Treating Customers Fairly (TCF), and dealership compliance standards
- Support and coach Sales Managers and Transaction Managers on compliant deal structuring
- Team Leadership & Development
- Recruit, train, and develop high-performing sales teams
- Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching sessions, and one-to-ones
- Build a positive, professional sales culture focused on customer experience and results
- Customer Experience
- Ensure exceptional customer satisfaction across the sales journey
- Handle escalated customer issues professionally and efficiently
- Maintain strong CSI and online review performance
- Operational Management
- Oversee sales administration processes to ensure accuracy and efficiency
- Work closely with Aftersales and Marketing to maximise cross-departmental opportunities
- Ensure showroom standards and brand presentation meet manufacturer requirements
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven experience in a General Sales Manager or Senior Sales Manager role within automotive retail
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Excellent understanding of finance, insurance, and FCA compliance
- Commercially astute with strong analytical and forecasting ability
- Results-driven with a hands-on management style
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills