Branch Manager – Earth Moving Equipment

Company Overview:
We are a leading provider of durable heavy equipment, including excavators, cranes, concrete equipment, wheel loaders, and road machinery. We seek an experienced Branch Manager to oversee daily operations and drive growth in Southern Africa.

Job Overview:
The Branch Manager will lead the branch’s operations, ensuring profitability, team development, and excellent customer service. This role requires strong leadership, industry knowledge, and the ability to drive sales and operational success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operations Management: Oversee branch operations, including sales, service, and inventory.
• Sales & Growth: Develop and execute a sales strategy to promote equipment, expand customer base, and meet revenue targets.
• Customer Service: Ensure customer satisfaction and promote after-sales services like maintenance contracts and repairs.
• Financial Management: Manage the branch budget, optimize profitability, and maintain inventory levels.
• Team Development: Hire, train, and manage staff, fostering a positive, high-performance environment.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• A bachelor’s degree in business management, Administration, or Construction Management (preferred).
• At least 5 years of experience in business management or operational management, with progressively increasing responsibilities.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in retail or store management, ideally in the earthmoving, construction, or material handling equipment industry.
• Proven track record of managing sales teams and achieving sales targets and production goals.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Technical Aptitude: Strong understanding of earthmoving equipment, material handling machinery, and rental services.
• Sales Expertise: Knowledge of sales strategies, product promotion, sales techniques, and marketing tactics.
• Operational Management: Familiarity with strategic planning, resource allocation, and operational efficiency in a branch setting.
• Financial Acumen: Knowledge of economic and accounting principles, including financial analysis, cost control, and budgeting.
• Customer Service Excellence: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build lasting relationships with customers.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to manage and mentor a team effectively, with strong decision-making and conflict resolution skills.
• Organization & Time Management: Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to present to small and large groups.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Ability to analyze data, identify problems, and develop solutions to improve branch operations.
• Proficiency in MS Office: High proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook; experience with CRM systems a plus.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional attention to detail in all areas of management, from financial reporting to customer service.

Additional Skills:

• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and product specifications.
• Strong understanding of economic principles and their impact on branch performance.
• Ability to understand and apply new information to both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in managing a branch in the earthmoving equipment, construction equipment, or material handling industries.
• Familiarity with the local market and regulatory environment.
• Experience in both sales and operations in a high-volume, customer-focused
  environment.