Branch Sales Manager & Operations Leader

​​​​​​ Title: Branch Sales Manager & Operations LeaderÂ
Compensation: $100,000 – $150,000 base salary, plus uncapped commission (typically $350,000–$400,000). Total compensation is expected to range between $450,000 and $550,000. Â
Location: Albany, NY (Relocation assistance available)Â
Travel: Local focus with occasional in-state meetings and customer visitsÂ

About The Job:Â

Lakeside HR Group has been engaged by a long-standing and highly respected HVAC manufacturer’s representative to recruit for a Branch Sales Manager & Operations Leader to join their Albany office. This company has been around for decades, has an excellent reputation in the market, and is backed by a larger parent organization, which has fueled growth. Â

This role is unique because it’s a true blend of sales and branch operations management. The person stepping in will inherit a book of contractor accounts while also taking on responsibility for branch profitability, logistics, and team leadership. This is a planned transition, with the current leader actively phasing out, which provides the opportunity to gradually take on responsibilities with strong support and guidance.Â

This company is a place where your contributions are recognized, your impact is felt directly, and you have the opportunity to develop meaningful connections with leaders, colleagues, and customers. They have a collaborative, team-oriented culture where people want to see each other succeed and are supportive through transitions, which makes it an exciting time to step in. It’s the kind of environment where you can make an impact, grow alongside the team, and play a large part in shaping the company’s future.Â

Breakdown of Responsibilities (Approximate Percentages):Â

• Sales & Account Management: 60–70%Â
• Branch Operations & Management: 30–40%Â
• New Business Development: 0–10% (primarily re-engaging dormant accounts)Â

Key Responsibilities:Â

• Manage 10–15 contractor accounts, cultivating strong relationships and ensuring timely bids.Â
• Oversee bidding: review bids, apply markups, coordinate with inside support, and gather market intelligence.Â
• Project manage sold jobs from bid acceptance through product shipment and installation.Â
• Focus on maintaining and growing existing accounts, with minimal emphasis on cold acquisition.Â
• Engage in a mix of customer-facing activities such as site visits, client meetings, and relationship-building events to strengthen partnerships and support ongoing business.Â
• Oversee branch revenue, profitability, logistics, forecasting, budgeting, and operational excellence.Â
• Lead and support the Albany team, including outside sales, inside sales, office management, and accounting staff.Â
• Collaborate with the office manager and bid coordinator to ensure strategic bidding and smooth operations.Â
• Participate in hiring, performance reviews, and team development with leadership support.
• Foster a collaborative, positive team environment aligned with company goals.Â

Required Skills:Â

• Commercial HVAC equipment industry experience required; familiarity with both mechanical and air side products preferred, though candidates with strength in either will be considered.Â
• Strong ability to manage sales cycles, bids, and project delivery.Â
• Leadership skills with prior experience overseeing teams or branch operations preferred.Â
• Financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and P&L oversight or willingness to learn.Â
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to maintain trusted customer relationships.Â
• Ability to adapt quickly to new product lines and dual mechanical/air side business model.Â

Benefits:Â

• Medical, dental, and vision insuranceÂ
• Prescription drug coverage Â
• Life insuranceÂ
• Short- and long-term disability
• 401(k) retirement planÂ
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidaysÂ
• Employee assistance program (EAP)Â
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) / health savings accounts (HSA)Â
• Additional wellness and support resourcesÂ

About Lakeside HR Group:Â

 At Lakeside HR Group, we understand that finding the right job is essential for your career success. We are a boutique-style human resources consulting and recruiting firm dedicated to providing personalized, tailored solutions. When you partner with us, you are not just getting a recruiter; you are getting the entire Lakeside team working together to support your career goals.Â

Partner with us at Lakeside HR Group, where we are more than just a recruiting firm; we are your partners in achieving your career aspirations.Â