The work of an area sales manager combines sales representative tasks with managerial responsibilities. As such, duties involve organising and supervising members of the sales team and making sure that any set targets are consistently met
Typically reporting to a director or regional manager, the area sales manager has responsibility for a particular assigned area, and may sometimes be required to subdivide the area into smaller territories for lower-level staff to take charge of. Searching out new business plays a large part in the job, which may require conducting presentations to potential customers
The work also involves analysing data and reporting the findings to superiors. It is therefore suitable for those with good analytical abilities and an aptitude for figures. Other requirements for the job include excellent communication and motivational skills, an ability to motivate and lead others and an organised, problem-solving attitude towards work. Salaries start at around £26,000 and can rise to over £30,000 with experience.

• Communication
• Supervision
• Being self motivated
• Operational management
• Meeting deadlines
• Managing stress
• Being competent and flexible
• Being a team player
• Organisation and planning
• Time management
• Being persistent and effective

A HND or HNC may assist job seekers in getting a job as an Area Sales Manager. Areas of study may include Business Administration, Management, Marketing or Sales. Professionals in this field who hold Bachelors and Masters Degrees have a greater advantage in finding gainful employment.