What Are the Responsibilities of a Branch Manager?

Posted by Variety Staffing

A branch manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a building supply distribution facility. Managers keep things running smoothly around the branch office by providing leadership, ensuring customer service standards, supporting sales and managing a safe working environment for employees. Branch managers must also be familiar with all company policies and procedures.

Let’s look further into the responsibilities of a building materials branch manager and the skills, experience and education candidates should possess.

Branch Operations Managers: Safety First  

Building materials branch managers have highly rewarding jobs, yet they also have a lot of responsibility. Specifically, branch managers are responsible for maintaining safe and secure working conditions. They must have a commitment to creating a safe workplace that is free from all injuries. As branch managers exceed the service expectations for their location, they can be successful in pleasing customers and vendors and growing their branch.  

Here are additional expectations that are required of most branch managers.

● Focus on improving the customer experience through productivity and compliance
● Manage operational staff, including training, coaching and mentoring
● Lead a productive environment that fosters team building, hard work and diligence
● Contribute to meeting all sales goals and expectations
● Analyze financial reports and manage expenses
● Maintain relationships with customers and vendors

Skill Requirements for Building Materials Branch Managers

In order to take distribution facilities to the next level, candidates should possess certain skills and abilities. Here are some of the most crucial skills to have as a branch manager.

● Ability to multi-task, make quick business decisions and work in a fast-paced environment
● Self-motivated and energetic
● Organized and detail oriented
● Effective time management skills
● Excellent communication
● Service oriented

Experience and Education Make a Difference

For those interested in becoming a building materials branch manager, a college degree is preferable, though not necessary. Experience is most important, as branch managers must demonstrate that they can maintain a safe working environment, cultivate strong teams and responsibly manage a large group of people.

For this profession, at least 2-5 years of experience in sales, manufacturing or distribution are ideal. Additional experience that can help land a branch manager position includes inventory and warehousing, general knowledge of the building industry, P&L analysis and logistic and dispatch.

Looking to hire a branch manager for one of your building supply distribution facilities? Variety Staffing has high quality candidates with the necessary skills and abilities to bring your branch to the next level.