Area Manager

As an Area Manager in the South West, you will lead the management of c20 depots to ensure their success aligns with our goals and financial forecasts, empowering our entrepreneurial Depot Managers to take ownership of their depots and drive local success. Reporting to the South West Regional Director, you will have a significant impact on Howdens' overall success through strong leadership and the development of high-performing teams. Additionally, you will have autonomy and accountability for executing company initiatives, embedding best practices, promoting the Howdens culture and adapting to market changes while upholding Howdens' values.  

What will I be doing as an Area Manager?   

• Drive sales and profit growth by providing coaching and guidance to Depot Managers to achieve operational excellence. 
• Ensure effective budget control and workforce planning to maximise depot performance. 
• Develop high-performing teams through collaboration with support functions, such as Learning & Development and your HR Business Partner.  
• Maintain a safe working environment and ensure compliance with Health and Safety regulations across depots. 
• Manage multiple priorities proactively, making informed decisions to address business needs effectively. 
• Lead area meetings where you will share best practices and promote continuous improvement across your area. 
• Deputise for the Regional Director as needed to ensure seamless leadership and maintain momentum. 
• Flexibility and willingness to travel frequently across the South West and occasionally beyond to meet business needs.  

What skills and attributes you need to be a successful Area Manager?  

• Proven leadership and extensive management experience in a fast-paced sales environment.
• Strong commercial awareness with a results-driven and sales-focused mindset.
• Ability to inspire, coach, and develop high-performing teams to drive business growth.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a proactive and strategic approach.
• Effective communication and people skills to engage at all levels.
• Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering exceptional service. 
• Adaptable and resilient.
• Competence in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) for reporting and communication.
• Ability to work independently, while being a team player.
• Forward-thinking, confident, and willing to take calculated risks to drive innovation.  

What you get from us as an Area Manager:  

• Competitive base salary 
• Monthly Area Manager bonus scheme 
• Company car and optional fuel card 
• Private Medical Insurance for you and your family 
• Competitive Pension Plan with a maximum company contribution of 12% 
• Life assurance 
• 26 days holiday, rising to 27 days after 5 years
• Team incentives and outings 
• Staff discount on Howdens products 
• Buy as you earn share scheme 
• Laptop and mobile phone.  

About Howdens: 

Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier providing thousands of products across kitchens, joinery, and hardware. We have over 900 depots throughout the UK and Europe – making us the first choice for more than 460,000 loyal trade professionals.  Last year our sales reached circa 2.3bn, and we have an ambitious growth agenda.  

There is a strong entrepreneurial ethos and the opportunity to develop within a fast-paced and commercial environment. That, along with a competitive salary, development opportunities, and exciting rewards, are among the reasons why our people enjoy working for Howdens – and why we have been named one of the 10 Best Big Companies to Work For. 

How to apply: 

When you apply, you will need to attach a CV. If this is your first time applying for a role with us, you will need to activate your account when you apply for this role. Please check your email carefully to ensure that you have completed this step. We are unable to view your application if you have not activated your account. Good luck with your application. 

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitment@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you. #LI-LO1