Job Description:
The Tool Connection is a premier automotive tools and specialist equipment brand that supplies a comprehensive range of traditional hand tools, specialist workshop equipment, and solutions designed to make difficult jobs easier for professionals. Our products are trusted across automotive workshops, HGV and PSV sectors, hybrid and electric vehicle servicing, and general maintenance. They are distributed through established wholesale channels, motor factors, and trade partners across the UK and Europe.
Due to continued successful growth, we are looking to recruit an experienced UK based Export Sales Manager to lead the development of our international sales by identifying new business opportunities and strengthening relationships with overseas customers, distributors, and partners.
The successful candidate will play a key role in expanding our global presence, managing existing accounts, and negotiating commercial agreements. Working closely with internal teams, you ensure excellent customer service, smooth order fulfilment, and long-term business growth.
This role also includes managing a small export sales team, providing leadership and coaching while driving sales growth and maintaining strong customer relationships.
We are building a team where people are trusted to take ownership, supported to grow, and encouraged to make a real impact. You will work on meaningful projects, alongside a collaborative team, with opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career.
Summary of Responsibilities
· Identify and develop overseas markets and new customers
· Manage international distributors, agents, and key accounts
· Negotiate contracts, pricing, and payment terms
· Meet export sales targets and prepare forecasts
· Coordinate logistics, shipping, and production for timely delivery
· Ensure compliance with international trade and customs regulations
· Represent company at trade fairs and international meetings
· Monitor market trends, competitors, and customer needs
Key skills Required:
· Strong sales and negotiation abilities.
· Excellent communication and cross-cultural relationship management.
· Knowledge of export procedures, Incoterms, customs regulations, and international logistics.
· Strategic thinking and market analysis.
· Foreign language skills (an advantage).
· Willingness to travel internationally.
· Ability to maintain a positive and productive team environment
· Ability to motivate and develop the wider team
· Strong organisational and time management skills
· Ability to maintain a positive and productive environment
· Customer-focused mindset
What makes the Tool Connection different?
We are proud to be employee-owned through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), we are committed to delivering long-term value, stability, and meaningful opportunities for our people.
What this means for our teams is enhanced job security, a stronger employee voice, and a culture where ideas and opinions are not only heard but actively acted upon. By investing in our people, we create an environment where employees feel valued, engaged, and empowered to make a real difference.
This long-term commitment to our workforce helps build greater stability, strengthens our business, and ensures a sustainable future for both our employees and our customers.
Why work for us?
We believe our people are at the heart of our success and play a vital role in everything we achieve as an organisation. Because of this, we are committed to creating a positive and supportive working environment where employees feel genuinely valued, respected, and appreciated for the contribution they make.
We recognise that when our staff are well-supported, motivated, and engaged, they are able to perform at their best and grow both personally and professionally.
To support this, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance wellbeing and promote a healthy work–life balance.
Our Benefits:
· Employee Ownership trust (EOT )
· Private Medical Insurance with Vitality
· FREE Holidays in our very own company holiday homes
· Your Birthday off in addition to your annual leave
· Christmas Savings Club with company contribution
· Paid day off for your child’s first day at school
· Paid day off when you become a Grandparent
· Salary sacrifice scheme – Cyclescheme and Techscheme
· Enhanced company sick pay
· Life Assurance scheme
· Employee assistance programme
· Access to Virtual GP Service
· Staff discount on our products
· Competitive Pension scheme
· 25 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays
· Long service rewards
· Christmas Bonus
· Refer a friend scheme, with bonus payment
· Yearly Flu Jabs
To enhance the wellbeing of our employees whilst at work, we provide complimentary fresh fruit daily, mental health and bereavement support from our in-house trained teams. Our toilet facilities are equipped with discreet emergency boxes, with sanitary products available. Free eye tests are encouraged and available for all employees and a company contribution for any new prescription, is available to all VDU users. When you arrive on site, we have plenty of secure off road, onsite parking for both cars and motorcycles and designated disabled parking if this is required.
Not forgetting our employees’ families, we hold social events for all ages – where the only aim is to have fun!
Tool Connection encourage all employees with personal development and self-improvement. Full training is provided onsite and employees are supported with additional training or qualifications if desired.
Your journey within the business will be unique to you, your skills and your commitment to personal growth, with great prospects to step up the ladder we encourage development and ambition in every role.
How to Apply
If you would like to find out more about the role or our business, please contact our friendly HR team on:
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01926 818193
If you're ready to apply, please send us your CV along with a cover letter telling us a little about yourself along with your salary expectations for this role.
We look forward to receiving your application.
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free flu jabs
- Free parking
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Private medical insurance
- Referral programme
- Sick pay
- Store discount
- Work from home
Work Location: On the road
