Job Description
A car manufacturer is seeking a Network Development Manager to acquire new dealers for their UK network. The business is growing fast in the UK and has ambitious plans for recruiting new dealers. You’ll be field based covering the UK – working closely with colleagues to build a robust dealer network and establish long-term partnerships. You will ideally be located in the Midlands or Southern UK as you’ll be need to regularly be in head office (based in Southern England).
This role would suit a someone with a background in a similar dealer network development position or in a dealer-facing sales operations role working for a vehicle manufacturer. You’ll need to have excellent sales and negotiation skills and the ability to effectively engage with senior management in dealer groups including AM top 20 dealer groups. A target-driven, can-do attitude and ability to work in a fast-paced environment will also be needed. In return you’ll be rewarded with a competitive package and excellent onward career opportunities within this fast-growing organisation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Network Strategy & Planning: Working with the network development team – help define the national dealer network strategy, identifying optimal locations, dealer selection criteria, and coverage targets
- Dealer Acquisition: Recruit and onboard dealers aligned with brand values and performance expectations
- Performance Management: Establish KPIs, monitor dealer performance, and implement corrective actions or support plans
- Contract & Compliance: Manage dealer agreements, ensure legal and brand compliance, and oversee onboarding processes
- Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong relationships with dealer principals, internal stakeholders, and cross-functional teams
- Market Intelligence: Continuously assess market trends, competitor networks, and customer needs to inform strategy
ABOUT YOU
- Proven experience in dealer network development OR a dealer-facing sales operations role for a working for a vehicle manufacturer (ideally passenger cars)
- Strong understanding of automotive dealer operations and business models
- Ideally have a strong ‘book’ of existing contacts with medium to large dealer groups in the UK
- Strategic thinker with hands-on execution skills
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities with the ability to open doors and forge new relationships with dealer group
- Analytical mindset with proficiency in data-driven decision making
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
- A highly target-driven, can-do attitude
In return you’ll be rewarded with a competitive package and excellent onward career opportunities within this fast-growing organisation.
Copeland Automotive Recruitment are committed to helping our clients build diverse and inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued and can contribute their unique perspectives. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs.