Branch Manager - Builders Merchant

Branch Manager – Builders Merchants
Location: Maidstone, Kent
Salary: £35,000 - £50,000
About the Role:
We are looking for an experienced and commercially driven Branch Manager to lead and develop a busy builders merchants branch based in Maidstone.
This is a hands-on management position, responsible for the overall performance of the branch, including sales, customer service, operations, stock control, profitability and team development.
The successful candidate will ideally have previous experience within the builders merchants, construction materials, timber, civils, plumbing & heating or wider building products sector, together with a strong understanding of the local trade market.
Key Responsibilities:
* Take full responsibility for the day-to-day management and performance of the branch.
* Lead, motivate and develop the branch team to achieve sales and profitability targets.
* Drive branch sales and identify opportunities to increase revenue and gross margin.
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing trade customers.
* Identify and win new business opportunities within the local area.
* Ensure excellent levels of customer service are maintained at all times.
* Monitor branch KPIs, sales performance, margins and profitability.
* Manage stock levels, purchasing and stock availability to meet customer demand.
* Ensure effective pricing and margin control across the branch.
* Work closely with the sales, transport, warehouse and operational teams.
* Ensure deliveries and collections are managed efficiently and to a high standard.
* Deal with customer queries, complaints and commercial issues professionally.
* Maintain high standards of health & safety, housekeeping and compliance.
* Ensure the branch operates in accordance with company policies and procedures.
* Monitor competitor activity and market conditions within the local area.
* Build strong relationships with suppliers and other key stakeholders.
* Recruit, train, coach and performance-manage members of the branch team where required.
Requirements:
* Previous management experience within a builders merchants or associated construction products environment.
* Strong knowledge of building materials and the construction/trade sector.
* A proven track record of achieving sales and gross margin targets.
* Experience managing and developing a team.
* Excellent customer service and relationship-building skills.
* Strong commercial awareness and understanding of branch profitability.
* Experience with stock management and operational processes.
* The ability to identify and develop new business opportunities.
* Strong communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
* A proactive, energetic and hands-on approach.
* Good organisational and time-management skills.
* The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, target-driven environment