Sales Manager

Overview

The Sales Manager is responsible for leading branch sales performance, profitability, and daily operations while driving growth in the retail steel market. This role oversees the inside and counter sales teams, develops and executes sales strategies, manages customer relationships and sales pipelines, and identifies opportunities to expand market share. The Sales Manager is also responsible for branch financial performance, employee development, purchasing and inventory oversight, and operational efficiency, while fostering a culture of accountability, customer service, safety, and continuous improvement aligned with company goals and values.

Responsibilities

Sales Leadership & Business Development

• Develop and implement sales plans and market strategies to grow existing accounts and secure new business opportunities within the branch's geographic and specialty markets.
• Lead, coach, and develop the inside sales team to achieve individual and team sales goals.
• Oversee sales activities, including prospect distribution, pipeline management, account development, and customer retention initiatives.
• Maintain relationships with key customers and periodically meet with top accounts to strengthen partnerships, address concerns, and identify growth opportunities.
• Staff, direct, and motivate the sales team to achieve maximum profitability and growth consistent with company objectives.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of sales training and professional development programs.
• Answer sales calls, prepare quotations and sales orders, and support customer inquiries as needed.

 

Branch Operations & Customer Service

• Oversee daily branch operations to ensure efficient customer service, order fulfillment, and inventory management.
• Manage purchasing activities and coordinate the procurement of materials to support customer demand and branch objectives.
• Oversee inbound freight logistics and ensure timely receipt and processing of freight documentation.
• Monitor and manage backorders, working proactively with customers, vendors, and internal departments to resolve issues and maintain customer satisfaction.
• Ensure branch facilities, equipment, and workspaces are maintained in a clean, organized, and professional manner.

 

Financial & Business Performance

• Maintain responsibility for the branch's profit and loss performance, including revenue growth, expense control, and overall profitability.
• Utilize financial and operational metrics to drive productivity, improve performance, and support informed decision-making.
• Monitor sales performance, inventory levels, labor costs, and other key performance indicators to ensure branch goals are achieved.
• Exercise sound business judgment in managing branch resources and assets while aligning decisions with the Company's overall objectives.

 

People Leadership & Human Resources

• Recruit, hire, train, develop, and manage branch personnel within approved staffing and budget guidelines.
• Conduct performance evaluations, goal-setting discussions, coaching sessions, and employee development planning.
• Partner with Human Resources to ensure compliance with company policies, employment laws, and performance management processes.
• Foster a positive, engaged, and accountable work environment that promotes teamwork, employee development, and high morale.
• Manage employee disciplinary actions and terminations in accordance with company policies and HR guidance.

 

Credit & Risk Management

• Operate within established credit approval authority and document business rationale for credit decisions when required.
• Partner with the Credit Department to support sound credit practices and manage customer accounts responsibly.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and internal controls.

 

Communication & Collaboration

• Regularly communicate with regional leadership regarding branch performance, business opportunities, operational challenges, and strategic initiatives.
• Conduct quarterly branch meetings, profit-sharing meetings, or town halls to communicate business results, market conditions, company initiatives, and branch goals.
• Collaborate with other branches and departments to implement best practices, improve consistency, and enhance organizational performance.
• Prioritize company-wide objectives when making business decisions and support cross-functional initiatives that benefit the organization as a whole.

 

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Management, or related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 5+ years of sales leadership, branch management, or related management experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading sales teams and driving business growth.
• Strong financial acumen, including experience managing budgets, profitability, and operational metrics.
• Proven leadership, coaching, and employee development skills.
• Excellent communication, customer service, problem-solving, and organizational abilities.
• Proficiency with CRM systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and business management software.

Knowledge/Skills/Competencies:

• Strong understanding of sales management, business development, and branch operations.
• Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop strategic action plans.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with customers, employees, vendors, and company leadership.
• Strong decision-making skills with the ability to balance customer needs, operational requirements, and company objectives.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of service and performance.