The position of sales manager includes responsibilities for developing business plans and strategies to expand the customer base and maximise income for the company as well as the management of departmental sales teams and budget controls and administration. Applicants for the position should possess an excellent knowledge of marketing principles and display leadership skills in motivating and supervising teams. Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as presentation skills are further key requirements
The average salary for this role is £40,000 per year. The successful applicant will need to have considerable previous experience in sales management and marketing as well as experience in managing a team. A bachelor’s degree is desirable by often not essential as a background in the field is felt to be more valuable by most employers. Applicants should also display strong IT skills in the use of relevant applications as well as a comprehensive understanding of the company’s products and services.

Sales managers are directly responsible for the performance of their teams and sales outcomes. These managers are not limited to any industry but they strive to increase a company’s profit margins through sales. Sales managers must be motivators, to help their teams achieve their targets.
The responsibilities of sales managers may differ. Some oversee many locations, while others are responsible for one location or a team. They may be involved in attracting new business prospects, inventing new sales tactics, or rebranding a product.
Sales managers:
i.  Interview, short list, hire and train sales staff
ii. Monitor, assess and implement new strategies for team performance
iii.  Analyze and prepare reports, budgets and forecasts
iv.  Motivate and lead team members
v.  Address customer or employee issues
vi. Attend various sales meetings, functions, conferences, shows or expos
Sales managers receive alluring benefits and lucrative salaries for their efforts. This may include health care, insurance, meal and uniform allowance, travelling, company cars, vacation and pension contributions. Sales positions are very popular and in our economic environment, it is a very demanding and stressful job. Therefore, managers must be highly motivated, persistent and have a keen business initiative.

1. Excellent accounting and numeric ability
2. Superior persuasive and interpersonal skills
3. Be amenable and amicable
4. Be diligent and trustworthy
5. Strong organizational, analytical and strategic skills
6. Be a good time and project manager
7. Speak more than one language
8. Be able to utilize computer and software applications
9. Dynamic and energetic team leader
10. Maintain and effectively use knowledge of sales and merchandising

Employers regard experience, and an excellent performance when hiring Sales Managers. They require managers to be dependable and dynamic, with proven results on the job. Having a degree in sales, marketing, or any business related area is beneficial to a graduate as well. In areas where sales managers sell technical products, a degree relevant to that industry is necessary.
Most companies also provide sales training, or access to independent consultants and trainers. Managers ought to be conversant and knowledgeable about current sales trends, their competition, and the global buying market.