Alistair Hodson

Experience

• 

  Adidas

  May 2015 - Jun 2017

  Sales Executive

  Sales Executive

• 

  The South African Gold Coin Exchange

  Jul 2017 - Jul 2018

  Administration Manager

  Administration Manager

• 

  Hyundai Automotive South Africa

  Jul 2018 - Apr 2019

  Sales Executive

  As a Sales Executive at Hyundai Plumstead, I played a pivotal role in driving sales and delivering exceptional customer service within the automotive industry. With a thorough understanding of Hyundai's product range and a commitment to meeting customer needs, I contributed to the achievement of sales targets and ensured customer satisfaction.Key Responsibilities:• Customer Interaction: Interacted with customers to comprehend their vehicle preferences, budget constraints, and specific requirements, providing tailored recommendations and assistance throughout the sales process.• Product Knowledge: Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of Hyundai vehicles, including features, specifications, and pricing, effectively communicating the value proposition of each model to potential buyers.• Sales Performance: Actively pursued sales opportunities, engaging with leads, conducting test drives, and presenting compelling offers to facilitate vehicle purchases.• Relationship Building: Built and maintained relationships with customers, ensuring open communication, addressing inquiries, and promptly resolving concerns to enhance satisfaction and loyalty.• Sales Administration: Completed sales documentation accurately and efficiently, including contracts, financing agreements, and trade-in paperwork, while adhering to dealership policies and regulatory requirements.• Market Awareness: Stayed informed about market trends, competitor offerings, and industry developments, adapting sales strategies to capitalize on opportunities for growth.• Collaboration: Collaborated with colleagues in various departments, such as finance, service, and administration, to coordinate efforts and provide comprehensive solutions to customer needs.• Follow-Up: Conducted post-sale follow-up with customers to ensure satisfaction, address any concerns, and promote additional products or services, fostering long-term relationships and repeat business. Show less

• 

  Rola Volkswagen

  Apr 2019 - Sept 2019

  Sales Executive

  As a Sales Executive at Rola Volkswagen, I was responsible for driving sales of Volkswagen vehicles and providing exceptional customer service to prospective buyers. With a strong understanding of Volkswagen's product lineup and a dedication to meeting customer needs, I played a crucial role in achieving sales targets and fostering customer satisfaction.Key Responsibilities:• Customer Engagement: Engaged customers to grasp their vehicle preferences, budget, and specific needs, offering personalized guidance throughout the sales process.• Product Knowledge: Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of Volkswagen vehicles, including features, specifications, and pricing, to effectively communicate the value proposition and advantages of each model to potential buyers.• Sales Performance: Actively pursued sales opportunities, proactively reaching out to leads, conducting test drives, and presenting compelling offers to facilitate the purchase of Volkswagen vehicles.• Relationship Building: Cultivated and maintained relationships with customers, ensuring open communication, addressing inquiries, and resolving concerns promptly to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.• Sales Administration: Completed sales documentation accurately and efficiently, including vehicle contracts, financing agreements, and trade-in paperwork, while adhering to dealership policies and regulatory requirements.• Market Awareness: Stayed informed about market trends, competitor offerings, and industry developments within the automotive sector, leveraging insights to adapt sales strategies and identify opportunities for growth.• Collaboration: Collaborated with colleagues in other departments, including finance, service, and administration, to coordinate efforts and deliver comprehensive solutions to customer needs and inquiries.• Follow-Up: Conducted post-sale follow-up with customers to ensure satisfaction, address any concerns, and promote additional products or services. Show less

• 

  Audi South Africa

  Sept 2019 - Apr 2020

  Senior Sales Executive

  As a Senior Sales Executive at Audi Centre Claremont, I was entrusted with the responsibility of driving sales and delivering exceptional customer service in the luxury automotive market. Leveraging my expertise in automotive sales and deep knowledge of Audi vehicles, I played a key role in meeting sales targets and exceeding customer expectations.Key Responsibilities:• Customer Engagement: Initiated and maintained relationships with customers, providing personalized assistance and expert guidance throughout the sales process to ensure a seamless and enjoyable buying experience.• Product Knowledge: Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of Audi vehicles, including features, specifications, and performance capabilities, to effectively highlight the benefits and value proposition to prospective buyers.• Sales Performance: Consistently met or exceeded sales targets by proactively identifying opportunities, following up on leads, and effectively closing sales transactions.• Negotiation and Closing: Negotiated pricing, terms, and financing options with customers to achieve mutually beneficial agreements, while adhering to company policies and profitability objectives.• Customer Satisfaction: Prioritized customer satisfaction by addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and providing post-sale support, fostering long-term relationships and promoting customer loyalty.• Market Analysis: Stayed informed about market trends, competitor offerings, and industry developments, leveraging insights to adapt sales strategies and maintain a competitive edge.• Administrative Duties: Completed sales documentation accurately and efficiently, ensuring compliance with dealership procedures and regulatory requirements.• Team Collaboration: Collaborated with colleagues across departments, including finance, service, and management, to coordinate efforts and deliver comprehensive solutions to customer needs. Show less

• 

  B-Active Group

  Dec 2019 - Dec 2020

  Sports Specialist (Franchise Owner)

  As the Sports Specialist and Franchise Owner at B-Active Group, I was responsible for the successful management and operation of a sports-focused franchise location. Leveraging my expertise in sports and fitness, I oversaw all aspects of the franchise business, from strategic planning and business development to customer service and team management.Key Responsibilities:• Business Development: Developed and executed business strategies to drive revenue growth, expand customer base, and enhance brand visibility within the community.• Franchise Operations: Managed day-to-day operations of the franchise location, including staffing, scheduling, inventory management, and facility maintenance, ensuring efficient and smooth operation.• Customer Engagement: Provided exceptional customer service by understanding customer needs, offering expert advice on sports equipment, apparel, and training programs, and fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for sports enthusiasts.• Sales and Marketing: Implemented marketing initiatives and promotional campaigns to attract new customers and retain existing ones, utilizing various channels such as social media, local advertising, and community events.• Team Leadership: Recruited, trained, and supervised a team of staff members, motivating them to deliver high-quality service and achieve sales targets.• Product Knowledge: Maintained up-to-date knowledge of sports equipment, apparel trends, and training techniques, ensuring the availability of relevant products and services to meet customer demand.• Financial Management: Managed financial aspects of the franchise business, including budgeting, expense control, and financial reporting, to ensure profitability and sustainability.• Compliance: Ensured compliance with company policies, franchise agreements, and regulatory requirements related to health, safety, and business operations. Show less

• 

  Audi Centre Claremont

  Jan 2021 - Sept 2022

  Assistant Manager Pre-owned (2IC)

  As the Assistant Manager Pre-owned (2IC) at Audi Centre Claremont, I played a pivotal role in supporting the management of preowned vehicle sales operations. My responsibilities included assisting in strategic planning, overseeing daily sales activities, and ensuring exceptional customer service. My performance and leadership in this role led to a promotion to Manager within the group.Key Responsibilities:• Sales Support: Assisted the Pre-owned Manager in developing and implementing sales strategies to achieve departmental goals and targets.• Team Coordination: Coordinated and supervised the sales team, providing training and support to enhance their performance and ensure consistent sales results.• Customer Interaction: Engaged with customers to understand their needs, recommend suitable preowned Audi vehicles, and facilitate the sales process from inquiry to purchase.• Inventory Oversight: Assisted in managing the preowned vehicle inventory, including acquisition, pricing, and display to optimize showroom appeal and sales potential.• Performance Analysis: Monitored sales performance metrics and generated reports to identify trends, track progress, and inform decision-making.• Market Research: Conducted market research to stay updated on industry trends, competitor offerings, and customer preferences, adapting sales strategies accordingly.• Customer Satisfaction: Ensured high levels of customer satisfaction by addressing inquiries, resolving issues promptly, and providing post-sale support.• Compliance: Maintained compliance with dealership policies and regulatory requirements, ensuring all documentation was accurate and up to date.Achievement: Promotion - Demonstrated exceptional leadership and sales performance, resulting in a promotion to Manager within the Audi Centre Claremont group. Show less

• 

  Claremont Volkswagen

  Sept 2022 - Nov 2023

  Master Cars Sales Manager (Preowned Manager)

  As the Master Cars Sales Manager for the Preowned division at Volkswagen, I spearheaded the sales operations for preowned vehicles, leading a dedicated team to achieve exceptional sales performance and customer satisfaction. My role encompassed strategic planning, team leadership, and effective inventory management to drive the success of the preowned vehicle sales department.Key Responsibilities:• Team Leadership: Led and motivated a team of sales consultants, providing training, guidance, and performance evaluations to ensure high levels of productivity and sales success.• Sales Strategy Development: Developed and implemented effective sales strategies and promotional campaigns to maximize sales and profitability of preowned vehicles.• Inventory Management: Oversaw the acquisition, pricing, and display of preowned vehicles, ensuring optimal inventory levels and attractive showroom presentations.• Customer Relationship Management: Cultivated strong relationships with customers, addressing their needs and ensuring a seamless and satisfying buying experience.• Performance Monitoring: Monitored sales performance metrics, analysing data to identify trends, areas for improvement, and opportunities for growth.• Market Analysis: Conducted market research to stay abreast of industry trends, competitive offerings, and customer preferences, adjusting sales strategies accordingly.• Compliance and Documentation: Ensured compliance with all dealership policies, regulatory requirements, and documentation standards.• Customer Service Excellence: Resolved customer complaints and issues promptly and effectively, maintaining a high standard of customer service and satisfaction. Show less

• 

  BMW Century City SMG

  Dec 2023 - Jun 2024

  BMW Approved Cars Sales Executive (Preowned)

  As a Preowned Vehicle Sales Executive at BMW SMG, I leverage my expertise in automotive sales to provide exceptional service to customers seeking preowned BMW vehicles. My role involves a comprehensive understanding of BMW's certified preowned inventory, ensuring that I match each customer with the perfect vehicle to meet their needs and preferences. By maintaining up-to-date knowledge of the automotive market and current promotions, I effectively guide customers through the purchasing process, from initial inquiry to final sale.Key Responsibilities:• Customer Engagement: Actively engage with potential buyers, understanding their needs and preferences to recommend suitable preowned BMW vehicles.• Inventory Management: Maintain a thorough knowledge of the preowned inventory, including features, specifications, and pricing.• Sales Process Management: Facilitate the entire sales process, including test drives, financing options, and closing sales transactions.• Client Relationship Building: Develop and nurture long-term relationships with clients to encourage repeat business and referrals.• Market Analysis: Stay informed about market trends, competitor offerings, and industry developments to provide insightful recommendations to customers.• Customer Satisfaction: Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction by addressing inquiries, resolving issues promptly, and providing post-sale support.• Compliance and Documentation: Adhere to all dealership policies and procedures, including documentation and compliance with regulatory requirements. Show less

• 

  CHERY

  Jun 2024 - now

  New Car Sales Manager