Who we’re looking for
We receive many applications every year. So how can you stand out? Well, here’s some insider knowledge to help you understand what we’re looking for. As you can see below, it's not all about qualifications; it's about you as an individual and the skills you can bring to the role.
These include:
Enthusiasm
When it's raining and cold on a Monday morning, we'll still expect you to show the same levels of enthusiasm as any other day. A strong work ethic and a can do attitude will help you achieve your objectives and reap the rewards of your bonus. Not least, you’ll need an enthusiasm for learning new skills and the ability to get the most from our training.
Flexibility
There’s an average of around 250 different retailers in each sales territory. That means you'll encounter a variety of different people each day, each with different expectation. You’ll also need the flexibility to spend time away from home, particularly during your initial training and first six months. During this time you may be attending training courses or covering other territories.
Flexibility is vital in the Tactical role as we’re part of a sales drive team and could be asked to take part in a particular brand drive activity at short notice.
Drive
It takes ambition and drive to achieve targets. And you'll be expected to demonstrate resilience too; retailers are busy people and will not always have the time to see you. Be persistent and you'll be ready to up your performance levels, whatever setbacks may come your way.
Organisation
When you first start you may feel daunted by everything you have to remember. That’s where your ability to prepare, plan and be as organised as possible will come in. With an average of 15 calls a day – plus daily admin to complete – you'll take full responsibility for managing your own time. So the ability to prioritise and remain organised is essential.
Commercial awareness
Business and sales focus is critical and we'll expect you to take a commercial approach to your work. Understandably, you'll need to be naturally sales orientated, and will always look for areas where you can maximise sales and opportunities for doing business.
Excellent interpersonal skills
To the Independent Trader, you're the face of Imperial Tobacco. Each day you'll be out and about daily, talking to retailers about our brands. So you’ll need to communicate effectively, engage with people and build long lasting relationships.
In addition, you must have:
- Maths and English GCSEs at Grade C or above (or equivalent)
- both parts of a full UK driving licence
- reasonable experience of driving since passing your test
- the right to work in the UK (we cannot accept applications if you require a work permit).
As you’d expect, you’ll be at an advantage with experience in sales and marketing. In some locations, additional language skills would also be a plus.