Lisa Thomas
Flint
Summary
National Sales Manager with 20+ years of experience in sales leadership, business development, and account management across diverse sectors including retail, upholstery, logistics, and financial services. Demonstrated ability to drive revenue growth and manage key accounts while leading a high-performing team. Strong relationship-building skills complemented by a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Additional experience in supporting educational environments enhances adaptability and people-focused approach.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
National Sales Manager
Westbridge Furniture
04.2014 - Current
- Manage and develop relationships with 320+ independent retail accounts, driving sales growth and retention
- Lead, coach and support two field sales managers, improving team performance and revenue delivery
- Collaborate cross-functionally (design, production, planning, logistics) to ensure seamless customer experience
- Analyse sales performance and implement strategies to increase revenue and profitability
- Present new product ranges, pricing structures, and commercial proposals to customers
- Identify market trends and competitor activity to inform product development and range expansion
- Work closely with the design and fabric selection teams to identify new product shapes and fabric trends.
- Manage the full product lifecycle from concept through to launch
- Regularly visit key accounts to strengthen relationships and increase retail presence
- Key Achievement: Consistently increased account revenue and expanded retail footprint through proactive relationship management and strategic product positioning
Adhoc Teaching Assistant
New Directions
09.2022 - 09.2024
- Supported pupils across a range of age groups (3–16), including those with additional learning needs
- Delivered small group and one-to-one interventions to improve engagement and attainment
- Assisted teaching staff with lesson preparation, classroom activities, and pastoral support
Business Development Manager
CPM (Royal Mail)
05.2011 - 04.2014
- Generated new business across the Manchester region, consistently achieving revenue targets
- Built and maintained relationships with SMEs, councils, and commercial clients
- Developed sales pipelines through proactive prospecting and lead generation
- Produced tailored quotations and onboarded new customer accounts
- Provided ongoing account management, upselling services and retaining clients
Fortnightly Review Officer / Receptionist
Jobcentre Plus
St Helens
09.2009 - 05.2011
- Supported customers in returning to work through guidance, coaching, and job search assistance
- Managed front-of-house operations, appointments, and customer enquiries
- Ensured compliance with job-seeking requirements and processed benefit-related queries
Digital Customer Service Account Executive
Autotrader Media
12.2008 - 09.2009
- Managed inbound customer enquiries from motor dealerships regarding digital advertising
- Achieved sales targets through upselling advertising packages and services
- Resolved account and billing queries, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction
Internal Account Manager & Purchasing Officer
Capital Bank Motor / LEX Autolease
01.2005 - 01.2009
- Managed dealer relationships within vehicle finance and leasing
- Assessed finance applications and ensured compliance with credit criteria
- Coordinated vehicle purchasing, invoicing, and payment processes
- Identified opportunities to grow accounts and increase sales
Earlier Career – Travel Industry
Thomas Cook, First Choice Travel, and Travelworld
01.2001 - 01.2005
- Delivered tailored travel solutions and exceptional customer service
- Achieved sales targets and trained colleagues in sales techniques
- Managed bookings, documentation, and financial transactions
Education
GCSEs - Maths, English & IT
NVQ Level 2 & 3 - Customer Service, Sales & Travel Services
NVQ Level 2 - Business Administration
Level 2 Certificate - Supporting Teaching & Learning in Schools (RQF)
Skills
- Sales Strategy & Revenue Growth
- Key Account Management
- Team Leadership & Development
- Negotiation & Influencing
- Commercial Pricing & Margin Management
- Customer Retention & Relationship Building
- Market Analysis & Product Development
- Stakeholder Management
- Training & Coaching
- Design
Additional information
- Full UK Driving Licence
- Strong IT and CRM system experience
Timeline
Adhoc Teaching Assistant
New Directions
09.2022 - 09.2024
National Sales Manager
Westbridge Furniture
04.2014 - Current
Business Development Manager
CPM (Royal Mail)
05.2011 - 04.2014
Fortnightly Review Officer / Receptionist
Jobcentre Plus
09.2009 - 05.2011
Digital Customer Service Account Executive
Autotrader Media
12.2008 - 09.2009
Internal Account Manager & Purchasing Officer
Capital Bank Motor / LEX Autolease
01.2005 - 01.2009
Earlier Career – Travel Industry
Thomas Cook, First Choice Travel, and Travelworld
01.2001 - 01.2005