Company Overview

AVS is part of the Lawsons Group, which is the UK’s largest independent fencing, timber and builders’ merchants and now boasts 35 branches, 700 employees and £165 million turnover, founded in 1921 and operates across London and the South East of England.

Role Purpose

The Assistant Branch Manager role is integral to supporting the Branch Manager in leading and motivating the team to meet and exceed sales, gross margin, and other key business targets. This role aims to grow branch sales and margins by proactively pursuing sales opportunities and developing relationships with new and existing customers.

Sales and Customer Service

In this role, you will engage with our customers over the trade counter and by telephone, acting as the first point of contact and perfect host for both our trade and retail customers. You will advise customers on suitable products and promote add-on items, maintaining a high standard of presentation within the trade counter and ensuring excellent levels of customer service at all times.

Work Hours and Location

This position requires working Monday to Friday from 07:30 to 17:00 and every second Saturday from 08:00 to 12:00, totalling 44.5 hours per week. 

The position is located at our AVS Fencing Branch -

Southdown Works, Laughton Rd, Ringmer, Lewes, BN8 5PN.

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive salary range from £32,000 - £35,000 depending on experience
• 25 days Holiday + Bank Holidays + 1 Celebration day
• Pension Scheme
• Death In Service Scheme
• Employee Assisted Programme
• Access to My Reward, including Online GP Access

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in surpassing branch sales, margins, and gross profit targets
• Comply with company audit requirements
• Effectively respond to customer needs
• Promptly and accurately handle trade counter and telephone sales and quotations
• Conduct outbound calls to prospective clients to generate sales and qualify leads
• Source materials to meet customer requirements for items not in stock
• Maintain exceptional standards of customer service in line with Lawsons Best Practice, Standards, and Policies
• Address customer queries effectively and courteously in a timely manner
• Assist in stock counts, ensuring stock levels are maintained and merchandised
• Prevent product loss by being vigilant
• Provide feedback to management on market trends and customer preferences

Candidate Profile

• Previous sales experience in a Builders Merchant is essential
• Demonstrates a positive, friendly attitude and enjoys management tasks to drive sales
• Promotes and adheres to company culture, values, and professionalism
• Possesses excellent interpersonal skills and confidence when approaching customers
• Excels in communication, influencing, and negotiating
• Experience in developing positive trade customer relationships
• Strong IT skills
• Highly motivated with a target-driven attitude
• Proficient in multitasking and effective time management
• Competent in using CRM systems and phone systems
• Professional approach with a commitment to company values