Sales executive

Sales executives, or managers, organise and lead a team of sales representatives.

They set sales targets for individual sales people and the team as a whole, often according to guidelines and targets set by a head office.

They can be responsible for a particular type of product or customer, or be the area manager for sales across a set geographical area.

The work could include: recruiting and training sales staff; allocating areas to sales representatives; developing sales strategies and setting sales targets; monitoring the team’s performance and motivating them to reach targets; and compiling and analysing sales figures.

Other duties include: dealing with some major customer accounts yourself; collecting customer feedback and market research; reporting back to senior managers; and keeping up to date with products and competitors.

In some jobs the role could also involve marketing.

Starting salaries are usually between £18,000 and £25,000 a year. With experience, this can rise to £25,000 to £55,000 a year.

Account directors can earn up to £70,000 a year or more.

Most companies offer a basic salary with a bonus or commission scheme, which can vary widely depending on experience and the industry or market sector.

To become a sales manager you will need proven experience in sales, with a good record of achieving targets.

Some companies may prefer you to have a business-related BTEC HND or degree, but your experience and track record are usually considered more important than your formal qualifications. 

It may also be an advantage to have work-based qualifications in sales, such as NVQs in Sales, or qualifications from professional bodies such as: Chartered Institute of Marketing; Institute of Sales and Marketing Management (ISMM); or Managing and Marketing Sales Association (MAMSA).