Wholesale Manager

Introduction

Wholesale managers organise staff and control the flow of goods within a wholesale business. They may be responsible for negotiating purchases, stock control, finance, storage, transport and the sales and marketing of wholesale goods.

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Work Activities

Wholesale managers organise and control the flow of goods and supervise the duties of staff within a wholesale organisation. Wholesalers supply retail organisations and tend to specialise in particular types of goods, for example, groceries or clothing.

Managers are ultimately responsible for the receipt, correct storage and despatch of goods at the right time and in the right quantities. Modern warehouses are highly automated and often computerised.

Managers must, therefore, be able to analyse information (often provided by electronic point of sales networks) and be familiar with computerised scheduling and stock control systems. They must ensure that they always have enough stock and negotiate with suppliers to get the best deal possible.

They may deal with financial matters, negotiate contracts for transport, and put into practice procedures for achieving greater efficiency. Wholesale managers are also responsible for the supervision, motivation and sometimes training of their staff.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

The work calls for a numerate organiser, with an analytical mind, who can motivate people, likes solving problems and enjoys meeting deadlines. The ability to understand and use computers is important.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Wholesale managers earn in the range of £15,000 - £18,500 a year, rising to £24,000 - £32,000. Higher earners can make around £50,000 a year, plus bonuses, depending on the size and location of the operation.

Managers usually work a basic 40 hour week. However, depending on the operation, they may be required to work evenings, at weekends or to be on call.

Employment throughout the UK is with wholesaling organisations, and sometimes with manufacturers who offer a wholesaling service to others.

Working as a storekeeper or warehouse operative/team leader can lead to entry into management-level posts.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some entrants have related qualifications and have developed relevant skills by working in transport or distribution. Working as a storekeeper or warehouse operative/team leader can lead on to entry into management-level posts.

• 6% of people in occupations such as wholesale management work part-time.
• 5% have flexible hours.

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