Sales Manager

Willis Automotive is a family and locally owned automotive group located in Des Moines, IA. We carry INFINITI, Cadillac, Lexus, MINI Cooper, Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo, Chevrolet, and Nissan. Our growing company also includes Collision, Detail, and Reconditioning teams. At Willis Automotive, we adhere to our six core values to maintain a tradition of automotive excellence and service leadership for all of our guests!

Willis Automotive Offers:

• A great benefits package, available the first month following 30 days of employment, which includes: Medical, Dental, Vision, Short and Long Term Disability, plus additional supplemental insurances
• 401k with company match
• Paid Time Off and 7 paid holidays
• Employee discounts at all locations
• Paid training and development on and off-site
• Employee appreciation: employee of the month, food trucks, community involvement, discounted event tickets, and more!

Primary Function:

Under the direction and supervision of the New Vehicle Sales Director, this position is responsible for running a profitable and efficient sales department.  This position will accomplish objectives by maintaining a well-balanced vehicle inventory and selling each unit at maximum gross with minimum expense. This position is also responsible for appraising vehicles. Exercises initiative and independent judgment in the performance of assigned tasks. Performs all duties within the objectives, standards, and policies of Willis Automotive.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Understands that business is built on customer satisfaction and service; makes the commitment to always guarantee customer satisfaction.
• Forecasts goals and objectives for the department and strives to meet them. 
• Strives for harmony and teamwork with all other departments.
• Assists with the preparation and administration of the annual operating budget for the department.
• Establishes the recommended unit sales and dollar gross profit objectives.
• Attends manager's meetings and other meetings as requested.
• Understands, keeps abreast of, and complies with federal, state, and local regulations that govern retail auto sales.
• Assists in the hiring and staffing of department personnel; participates in hiring of other department sales staff.
• Trains, motivates, counsels, and monitors the performance of all department staff.  Performs an annual formal performance review for staff and makes recommendations for pay modifications.
• Develops performance improvement plan(s) for sales personnel failing to reach their objectives.
• Guides all sales personnel in setting their objectives on a short and long-term basis.
• Conducts meetings to discuss activities, problem areas, and to develop strategies for a more efficient operation.
• Monitors department payroll records.
• Handles customer complaints immediately and according to dealership guidelines.
• Develops and monitors a program to ensure that all sales personnel are kept informed of all new inventory.
• Establishes and enforces product-knowledge standards.
• Assists sales personnel close deals when necessary.
• Plans and controls the display of vehicles.
• Knows and understands vehicle equity, values and lease programs. 
• Monitors daily reports and sales productivity.
• Presents a professional image and demeanor to the public and to customers.
• Must be willing to work a flexible schedule including evenings, Saturday's and morning hours during inclement weather conditions.
• Communicates work accomplishments and activities to General Manager on a regular basis.
• Assists in the development of advertising campaigns and/or other promotions.
• Assists in the absence of other sales managers.
• Becomes civically involved in such areas as charities, rotary or breakfast clubs to develop business.
• Performs any other related duties as assigned.

What we need from you:

• Ability to read and comprehend instructions and information
• Four-year college degree in business and/or related field and/or equivalent work experience preferred
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• In depth knowledge of the company's goals, objectives, mission and culture
• Minimum one-year experience in an automotive sales and/or management
• Ability to operate the department profitably within the dealership guidelines  
• Broad knowledge of all types of vehicles; purchase and wholesale processes
• Ability to motivate, train, and counsel staff in a positive and professional manner
• Previous supervisory experience; proven managerial experience
• Valid Iowa driver's license; must maintain an acceptable driving record in accordance with insurance provider
• Ability to lift up to 40-50 pounds comfortably while demonstrating third seat options on vehicles
• Excellent written, oral, and presentation skills
• Above-average PC computer/keyboarding skills
• Working knowledge of Internet; email systems including attachments and email group lists, MS Excel and Word programs 
• Must have ability to work well in a team-based environment