Head of Sales
While every well organised company has a set strategy for growth and development through increased sales, there needs to be a sales team tasked with identifying openings, initiating plans and monitoring success. The head of sales is at the forefront of that team, and is a vital cog in the success of its operation.
In some organisations, the head of sales will occupy a place on the board alongside directors, while they may alternatively report to a sales director. Either way, they will head up the team and oversee the strategic planning and implementation of sales strategies in line with the board’s demands, and they will be expected to run the department with a degree of autonomy.
Part of the head of sales job description might also include liaising with the rest of the company, especially production and supply chain, to ensure that any sales agreements they make with customers can be delivered. They will also be responsible for negotiating deals with important clients, although that task might also be delegated to subordinates within an agreed framework for smaller clients.
Head of Sales skills required
A good head of sales will be completely on top of the processes, capabilities, products and services of the company. That’s partly because they might often be the only company representative in critical meetings, but also because they will be a conduit between the board, the production arm and the team delivering sales targets.
Head of sales jobs therefore always require someone who is a fast learner, is analytical with KPIs and forecasts, and is a superb communicator to clients, prospects and colleagues at all levels.
Head of Sales Jobs in the North East
Covering Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, Teeside and County Durham, the North East includes the cities of Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle upon Tyne, as well as other communities like Gateshead, Middlesbrough and Darlington.
In the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries, the area's economy mainly relied on shipbuilding, heavy industry, coal mining and manufacturing. However, most of these faced significant decline after the second world war.
The region's economy is now mainly based in the service sector, and it is also known for its retail, art and culture. A number of tech companies are located in the North East, as well as businesses based in the petrochemical and steel industries.
What's more, the region is home to a significant amount of scientific research, particularly at the Centre for Life. This facility in Newcastle includes exhibition space for tourists, as well as a number of working laboratories that are used by biotechnology companies and medical clinics.
For those seeking Head of Sales roles, just some of the companies that have headquarters or manufacturing facilities in the North East include Santander, Sage Group, Virgin Money, Tetley Tea, McCoy's Crisps, Greggs the Bakers, Nestle and Coca Cola.
In addition, there's BAE Systems, which manufactures military tanks, while Siemens produces steam turbines and Nissan operates the largest car factory in the UK.
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Find head of sales jobs at Cast UK
Are you looking for your next head of sales role and want to help push a business to the next league? Or are you running a business and you need someone to hit the ground running as a new head of sales? Whichever you are, Cast UK can help with your recruitment.
If you’re a potential candidate, register with us so we can contact you when a relevant position becomes available.
If you’re looking for a sales head yourself, call one of our consultants on 0333 121 3345 – we’ve got an extensive list of excellent management and executive level sales professionals who are ready to talk.
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