General Sales Manager

Job overview

Listers Group is hiring a General Sales Manager for its Volkswagen dealership in Coventry. The role sits within the management team and focuses on leading the sales function, improving customer experience, and delivering strong commercial results.

Working pattern

The position follows a Monday to Saturday schedule, with one weekday off, plus Sundays worked on a rota.

Compensation and core benefits

The package includes use of a company car and on-target earnings of £75,000.

What the role involves

You will lead and energise a developing sales team, set the tone for a high-performing customer journey, and make sure sales goals for new and used vehicles are achieved within the dealership’s operating and financial guidelines.

• Build strong customer relationships and deliver a buying experience that stands out for service quality.
• Deal with customer questions and complaints, making sure issues are handled promptly and effectively.
• Support the team with everyday sales activity, including customer follow-up, pipeline control, deal construction, closing activity, vehicle presentation, and stock management.
• Drive the sales process and help the team meet monthly KPIs for units sold, gross profit per vehicle, finance penetration, and add-on product performance.
• Ensure sales and profit forecasts are met through disciplined management of activity and performance.
• Complete all sales paperwork accurately and produce reports covering sales performance and forecasting.
• Make sure customer and vehicle data is collected thoroughly and correctly, in line with the company’s FCA responsibilities.

What the company is looking for

The ideal candidate may already be working as a sales manager, sales controller, or retail manager and wants a fresh challenge with better rewards and progression.

• A proactive, hands-on leader who can move the department forward.
• Strong ability to meet KPIs and uphold brand standards.
• A proven record of delivering profitable results and excellent customer satisfaction.
• Confident management and leadership capability, with a winning attitude and genuine enthusiasm for the brand.
• Motor trade, automotive, or car dealership experience is preferred, though not mandatory because full training will be provided.

Employee benefits

• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays
• Company pension
• Wellness programme
• Sick pay
• Group life insurance
• Discounts on car servicing for staff
• Listers employee discounts on retailers, restaurants, cinemas, and holidays
• Long-service and loyalty rewards
• Staff referral scheme
• Access to in-house, manufacturer, and professional qualifications
• Free on-site parking
• Company events

About the employer

Founded in 1979, Listers Group is one of the UK’s largest privately owned and family-run motor retail groups. Its growth has been driven by its people, and it represents some of the world’s most prestigious car brands across the Midlands, Lincolnshire, Gloucestershire, Norfolk, and Yorkshire. The business supports employees across all areas and welcomes applicants seeking a career in the motor trade, automotive, or car dealership sector.

Additional information

Candidates looking for similar motor trade roles may also join the company’s talent bank.