Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Interests
Timeline
SalesManager
GERHARD LESSING

GERHARD LESSING

Sales Manager
Centurion

Summary

As a dynamic Sales Manager, I embody a unique blend of positivity and motivation, creating an uplifting environment that inspires my team to excel. My goal-oriented approach ensures that we consistently achieve and surpass sales targets. I maintain a disciplined yet supportive atmosphere, providing guidance and resources that empower my team members to thrive. Transparency is key in my leadership style, fostering trust and open communication between team members and management. I am a lifelong learner, committed to staying sharp and adaptable in a constantly evolving market. With a knack for creativity, I devise innovative strategies that drive sales growth. My proactive contributions focus not only on individual performance but also on the overall development of the company.

Experienced with leading sales teams to achieve significant revenue growth and customer acquisition. Utilizes strategic planning and effective communication to guide teams and meet targets. Track record of fostering strong client relationships and adapting to dynamic market conditions for sustained success.

Overview

32
32
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
2
2
Languages

Work History

Senior Sales Manager

Vic Bay / OneOff
06.2022 - Current
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy to align with company objectives and drive revenue growth.
  • Maintain a robust business plan to achieve sales targets across turnover, gross profit, expenses, unit sales, and net profit.
  • Advise on competitive pricing strategies and conduct market price comparisons to ensure alignment.
  • Deliver regular sales and stock analysis reports to the Director, including Customer Satisfaction Indicators (CSI) and activity management.
  • Oversee the sales department budget, ensuring alignment with company objectives and industry benchmarks.
  • Design and implement incentive-driven commission structures that motivate performance and align with company goals.
  • Collaborate with Customer Service to expand market presence through effective lead generation and communication.
  • Plan and execute promotional campaigns and corporate events to drive brand awareness and market engagement.
  • Coordinate comprehensive sales training programs to enhance product knowledge and sales skills across the team.
  • Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships to understand needs, address inquiries, and ensure exceptional customer satisfaction.
  • Analyze market trends and customer insights to refine marketing strategies and optimize ROI on marketing spend.
  • Conduct detailed financial analyses to monitor gross profit percentage, return on investment, and sales performance metrics.
  • Implement and uphold company policies and procedures to mitigate risk and maximize profitability, with regular KPI reviews.
  • Ensure the sales team is adequately staffed and motivated, setting clear performance targets and conducting regular appraisals.
  • Negotiate with suppliers to secure the best prices and agree on pricing strategies to enhance profit margins.
  • Enhance lead management processes, continuously measuring and improving lead generation campaigns for better outcomes.

Sales Manager

Search Marketing Online
  • Develop and execute integrated digital sales initiatives to drive exponential sales growth.
  • Led a high-performing team of digital sales executives, delivering targeted coaching for peak performance.
  • Analyzed sales metrics to uncover opportunities for improvement and drive results.
  • Forecasted quarterly and annual profits, adjusting budgets to maximize profitability.
  • Coordinated with marketing to enhance efforts and optimize campaigns for effectiveness.
  • Stayed informed on new product launches, ensuring team alignment and readiness for go-to-market efforts.
  • Identified and pursued new business opportunities in emerging markets, converting leads into loyal customers.
  • Monitored and adapted strategies based on key performance indicators (KPIs) to achieve sales targets.
  • Collaborated with marketing to craft engaging, customer-centric content that drives conversion and boosts sales.
  • Kept abreast of industry trends, competitor strategies, and advancements in digital technology.

Sales Manager

Italtile Projects
06.2009 - 03.2013


  • Led and developed a high-performing team through comprehensive training and employee development initiatives.
  • Possessing in-depth knowledge of tile and bathroom products, including technical specifications and installation
  • Building and maintaining strong relationships with customers, understanding their needs, and providing exceptional service
  • Executed budget planning and forecasting to ensure financial targets were met.
  • Implemented robust performance management systems to enhance productivity.
  • Cultivated and maintained strong client relationships to foster loyalty and repeat business.

Sales Manager

Spec Tiles
02.2006 - 05.2009
  • Developing and maintaining strong relationships with key clients, including architects and building contractors
  • Staying informed about market trends, competitor activities, and potential opportunities
  • Providing training and support to sales team members to enhance their skills and performance
  • Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
  • Managed key accounts with strategic planning and relationship building, resulting in increased customer loyalty and repeat business.

Sales Manager

MAB Holdings (Supplier to the Building and Hardware Industry)
06.2000 - 01.2006
  • Led daily training and motivation sessions for high-performing sales teams.
  • Developed and managed strategic sales budgets to optimize profitability.
  • Represented the company in high-stakes interactions with potential clients.
  • Negotiated senior-level agreements, driving substantial business growth.
  • Recruited top-tier sales talent to enhance team performance.
  • Identified and monitored competitor performance to refine sales strategies.

Sales Executive

Naspers (Media 24)
11.1993 - 05.2000
  • Expertly sold advertising space to maximize revenue opportunities.
  • Proactively managed and developed new accounts to drive business growth.
  • Cultivated and built strong client relationships for long-term success.
  • Maintained a pulse on the dynamic media landscape to inform sales strategies.

Education

Grade 12 (Matric) - Afrikaans, English, Maths, Biology, Business Economics, Accountancy

Framesby High
01.1990

Diploma - Media Studies

AAA School of Advertising
Randburg
04.2001 -

Skills

Coaching and development

Certification

Driving license category CODE 8 (EB)

References

Dean, Schenk, 082 729 7955, Interface Holdings

Interests

Golf

Timeline

Senior Sales Manager

Vic Bay / OneOff
06.2022 - Current

Sales Manager

Italtile Projects
06.2009 - 03.2013

Sales Manager

Spec Tiles
02.2006 - 05.2009

Diploma - Media Studies

AAA School of Advertising
04.2001 -

Sales Manager

MAB Holdings (Supplier to the Building and Hardware Industry)
06.2000 - 01.2006

Sales Executive

Naspers (Media 24)
11.1993 - 05.2000

Sales Manager

Search Marketing Online

Grade 12 (Matric) - Afrikaans, English, Maths, Biology, Business Economics, Accountancy

Framesby High
GERHARD LESSINGSales Manager