Hire Manager

Job DescriptionJob Purpose:To manage and develop the Lifting Gear and Rail Hire business in terms of its operational and commercial activities. Driving it forward to assist in the delivery of key objectives and targets as detailed in the Lifting Gear Business Plan, which also extends to the branch network.To build working relationships with Key Accounts and Key Suppliers while proactively seeking new business opportunities.\tAccountabilities:Management and Leadership •\tManagement of internal Hire Team and Workshop staff.•\tDevelop relationships with Key Account contacts by phone, email and/or visit.•\tIdentify and investigate business development opportunities for new accounts / markets. •\tAssist GM in delivering key objectives of the Business Plan.•\tEnsure the Hire Team are following up quotations and reporting on any high value or lost orders.•\tEnsure effective hire fleet management.•\tEnsure damage or loss processes are adhered to.•\tProvide capital investment opportunities to add / replace hire assets.•\tGather information on competitor pricing and supply recommendations for hire rate review.•\tContinuous review of internal processes and staff utilisation to identify and report on improvements.•\tGathering and sharing of customer and market information.•\tRecommendations and involvement in recruitment.•\tSupport of branch hire network regarding business opportunities, assets and logistics.•\tLiaise with external sales team regarding planned sales visits and follow up reports.•\tPromote complete Lifting Gear offering including Hire, Sales, Service and Engineering.•\tDeputise for team members when applicable.•\tAdvise any repairs / renewals for work plant.•\tEnsure company advertised opening hours are covered.•\tReport on any site issues including building and perimeter.•\tKeep senior management informed of any relevant information including but not limited to large / interesting enquiries / orders, staff issues, site issues or capex requirementsBranch Performance•\tAchieve Planned Sales and Profit against the agreed business plan.•\tSupply information to include in monthly report.•\tEnsure internal team follow company processes in line with our ISO documented system and commercial guidelines.•\tWork with QA/H&S Manager to follow up on any non conformance. •\tEnsure team assist Finance in ensuring that customers are paying within terms (i.e. no significant overdue debt).•\tUndertake appraisal process to monitor development and identify training requirements for Hire Team.•\tEnsure company assets and machinery are regularly maintained.Customers•\tEnsure that a ‘customer first’ approach is adopted to achieve consistent first-rate customer service.•\tVisit Key Accounts and potential new customers to develop mutually beneficial relationships.•\tProduce customer action plan for key and emerging accounts.•\tEnsure CRM system is up to date with correct and relevant customer information.•\tRegular contact to ensure maximising customer retention.Commercial Policy•\tEnsure hire rate review is undertaken on an annual basis.•\tEnsure hire system is up to date with pricing and customer discount matrices.•\tLevels of authority adhered to with respect to pricing, discount, capital investment, disposal, general purchasing and credit notes.•\tWorking within the company strategic parameters, commercial policy and health and safety guidelines.•\tAttend monthly Commercial Review and Lifting Gear meetings as required.Fleet Management•\tMaintain an adequate Hire Fleet, recommending new fleet as required.•\tApplying good judgement in terms of cross hire.•\tMaintain Hire Fleet condition including performing weekly stock takes.•\tHire assets to be made available in good time. Marketing•\tDevelop ideas and information for marketing opportunities.•\tProactive distribution of the Hire Guide.•\tRepresent the company at trade exhibitions and events.Essential Requirements for Job at Competent Level of Performance:•\tA sound industry track record in lifting gear and / or rail hire at management level.•\tIn depth technical and application knowledge.•\tDemonstrating the ability to develop a vision and successfully formulate and implement a plan•\tStrong interpersonal and excellent man management skills to form a cohesive team•\tExcellent time-management skills whilst demonstrating a flexible approach and a ‘can do’ attitude•\tSound commercial skills to achieve superior performance and profitability•\tProficient in the use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook).•\tFlexibility that includes the potential to assist other departments and locations within Arbil•\tAbility to form constructive relationships with colleagues across the group and to interact with Corporate functions such as Finance, Marketing and QA / H&S.•\tKeeping the GM and Directors informed of all material events that might affect branch performance positively or negatively•\tUK driving licence and flexible to undertake travel to suppliers, customers and other partiesExperience Required:•\tLifting Gear industry.•\tRail industry.•\tCustomer account management.•\tStaff management.Personality:•\tStrong character that is able to command respect within Arbil and with suppliers and customers•\tSelf motivated and able to work under own initiative•\tExperience and maturity that will ensure commercial successCommunications:•\tInternal: All levels of staff including other division and those in corporate roles•\tExternal: Suppliers (existing and potential), customers (new and existing), professional advisors etc