Area General Manager

Polegate, Worthing, Heathfield, Eastbourne, Rye, Bexhill, Lewes, Uckfield, Hastings & Hailsham

Company: Sussex Plumbing Supplies (part of IBMG)
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent

About Us

Since 2000, Sussex Plumbing Supplies has been supporting plumbing professionals across the Southeast with a strong reputation for customer service, reliability, and expertise. As part of the Independent Builders Merchants Group (IBMG), we combine local knowledge with national strength.

The Role

We're looking for a dynamic Area General Manager to lead 10 depots: As an Area General Manager overseeing a number of branches, your responsibilities will include strategic planning, financial management and operational oversight.

You'll manage operations, financials, and teams, while driving sales and maintaining high standards across all sites.

Key Responsibilities Financial & Sales

• Manage area budgets to achieve or exceed financial targets (EBITDA focus)
• Develop and deliver business plans to drive sales and margin growth
• Grow customer base (new, existing, and lapsed)
• Manage pricing strategies and maintain profitability
• Monitor competitor activity and market trends

People Leadership

• Lead, coach, and motivate branch teams
• Partner with HR on recruitment, retention, and employee relations
• Identify and support employee development opportunities
• Ensure HR processes are completed accurately and on time

Stock & Operations

• Maintain stock accuracy and performance across all branches
• Oversee stock control processes (ERP system)
• Coordinate stock efficiencies across the network

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with H&S legislation and company policies
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping and branch safety
• Oversee vehicle and transport compliance (DVLA, VOSA, Operator Licence)
• Protect company assets and minimise risk

About You

• Minimum 2 years' area or multi-site management experience
• Strong builders' merchant / plumbing supplies knowledge
• Proven track record delivering sales growth and profitability
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills
• Strong commercial awareness and decision-making ability
• Demonstrated commitment to health & safety standards

Measures of Success

• Achievement of area EBITDA targets
• Growth of customer base and product mix
• Improved branch performance and margins
• Strong team development and engagementFull compliance with company policies

Working Hours

Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 5:00pm

What We Offer

• Competitive salary + bonus
• Pension & paid holidays
• Career development & training
• Staff discount on materials
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Retail discounts (Perks Membership)
• Supportive, team-focused culture

Apply Today

If you're a driven leader with a passion for sales and customer service, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now and take the next step in your builders' merchant career.

Drive profitable growth against budget while leading and developing teams.