Commercial Manager

Commercial Managers – Two Appointments 📍 Fareham, Hampshire | Hybrid Working Wilson Brook Consulting is delighted to be partnering once again with Williams Trade Supplies, one of the UK's leading independent plumbing and heating merchants, to recruit two Commercial Managers. With 47 trade counters, turnover exceeding £110m and a proud history dating back to 1972, Williams is a substantial, independently owned business with ambitious plans for the future. As part of the continued development of its commercial function, we are recruiting for two positions: 🔵 Commercial Manager – Heating & Tools 🔵 Commercial Manager – Pipe, Fittings & Radiators THE OPPORTUNITY These are broad, commercially focused roles offering genuine ownership, autonomy and the opportunity to make a significant impact. Reporting to Commercial Director Patrick Skilton, you'll take responsibility for your product categories, covering supplier negotiations, purchasing, product ranging, pricing, margins, promotions and overall commercial performance. You'll work closely with suppliers, branches and internal teams to identify opportunities, drive profitable growth and ensure Williams continues delivering exceptional service to its customers. WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR? We're looking for commercially astute, proactive individuals who understand the complete commercial equation – not simply buying products at the lowest possible price! You'll ideally bring experience in category management, purchasing or broader commercial management within plumbing and heating, building products, merchanting or distribution. One appointment may suit a highly experienced commercial professional, while the other could offer an excellent progression opportunity for someone ready to step into greater responsibility. The key attributes we're seeking include: ✅ Strong commercial and analytical capability. ✅ Excellent supplier negotiation and relationship management skills. ✅ Understanding of purchasing, pricing, margins and category performance. ✅ Initiative, energy and a results-driven approach. ✅ Excellent communication and collaboration skills. ✅ The confidence to challenge established thinking and implement improvements. WHY JOIN WILLIAMS? Williams offers the scale and resources of a substantial merchant combined with the agility, independence and values of a privately owned business. Its distinctive Williams Way culture places considerable emphasis on customer service, doing the right thing, continuous improvement and looking after its people. You'll join a supportive, down-to-earth business where good ideas are welcomed, individual contributions are valued and commercial decisions can genuinely make a difference. LOCATION & WORKING ARRANGEMENTS Both roles are based at the company's Fareham headquarters, with hybrid working arrangements and flexibility for exceptional candidates. INTERESTED? 📩 Apply with your CV and a brief covering note to cv@wilsonbrook.com Alternatively, contact Wilson Brook Consulting for a confidential discussion. Two excellent opportunities to join a successful independent merchant and play an important role in its future development.