Sales Manager - Boutique Retirement Community

Location: Stow on the Wold, Gloucestershire
Reports To: General Manager
Salary: £50,000 OTE
Job Type: Full-Time - Fixed term

About the Role

We are seeking an exceptional sales professional who combines commercial excellence with genuine warmth, creativity, and a passion for exceptional customer service. This isn't your typical corporate sales role - it's an opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives during a significant transition.

You'll be equally comfortable developing innovative sales and marketing initiatives and spending quality time understanding individual families' concerns and aspirations. You'll appreciate our boutique scale, non-corporate culture, and position at the heart of the historic Cotswold town of Stow on the Wold, and be energised by the opportunity to shape the future of this special community.

About Us

Our community offers a distinctive approach to retirement living, combining true independence with exceptional care in a stunning Cotswold setting. We feature charming cottages and contemporary apartments, thoughtfully arranged around our beautifully restored Manor House, where residents retain complete control of their lifestyle while enjoying the peace of mind that comes from knowing expert assistance and support are always close at hand.

What You'll Bring

Professional Experience

• Proven track record in sales management, ideally within property, new homes, or retirement living sectors
• Demonstrated ability to meet and exceed sales targets with a commercially aware mindset
• Experience managing the complete sales cycle from lead generation through to completion
• Competent with CRM systems and strong IT skills for maintaining accurate records and reporting

Personal Qualities

• Warmth and authenticity - A genuine, approachable nature that builds trust naturally and connects with people on a human level
• Creativity and innovation - Ability to develop fresh approaches to sales, marketing, and problem-solving without relying on corporate playbooks
• Empathy and compassion - Deep understanding of the emotional journey involved in downsizing and transitioning to retirement living
• Inspiring presence - Confident communication style that articulates our vision compellingly while remaining authentic
• Adaptability - Comfortable with varied demands in a small team environment and evolving priorities
• Independent drive - Self-motivated yet thrives as part of a close-knit, collaborative team

Communication Skills

• Exceptional ability to adapt communication style for different audiences - from prospective residents and families to solicitors, estate agents, and community partners
• Strong negotiation abilities balanced with a customer-focused, service-oriented approach
• Natural relationship builder with local community connections
• Patient and committed to delivering outstanding service throughout long sales cycles

What Makes This Role Special

This position differs significantly from larger corporate retirement communities:

• Boutique scale - Our smaller, more intimate site creates unique opportunities to know each resident personally and tailor their experience accordingly
• Non-corporate environment - We value autonomy, creativity, and personal initiative over rigid processes. This role requires entrepreneurial thinking and confident decision-making
• Community integration - We hold a treasured position at the heart of Stow on the Wold, and you'll act as an ambassador for this reputation
• Hands-on collaboration - As part of a close-knit team, you'll support colleagues across different functions with an all-in-together approach
• Excellence without compromise - Our community attracts discerning individuals with high expectations, and you'll deliver impeccable service to match

What Sets You Apart

Beyond the technical requirements, you will:

• Bring energy and enthusiasm to building relationships within Stow and surrounding areas
• Demonstrate genuine interest in understanding each prospective resident's individual circumstances and aspirations
• Think creatively about marketing opportunities that reflect our character and values
• Embrace the variety and challenges of a dynamic, evolving environment
• Balance commercial objectives with genuine care for helping people make one of the most important decisions of their later years

Essential Requirements

• Full clean driving license (preferred)
• Commitment to maintaining regulatory and professional standards (including ARCO Standards)
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Flexibility regarding working hours to accommodate the needs of prospective residents and their families

If you're passionate about combining commercial success with meaningful human connection, and you're ready to shape the future of a truly special retirement community, we'd love to hear from you.