Jon Bridgeman
About
A professional, experienced and convivial character with positive energetic drive to achieve goals by applying creative techniques and dedication coupled with outstanding persuasive communication, negotiation and sales skills delivered at all levels, capturing requirements, confirming and closing both face to face or via digital mediums, ensuring success to the bottom line of any business.
Key experience in the Automotive, e-Commerce and Computer Industries.
Summary
​A highly ambitious and seasoned Used Car Sales Professional with over 15 years of entrepreneurial experience in establishing and growing successful used car dealerships.
Proven track record of exceeding sales targets, generating significant revenue, and building strong, lasting customer relationships through exceptional service.
Eager to bring a results-driven mindset and a passion for sales to a multi-award-winning, service driven dealership, leveraging an in-depth understanding of the sales process from initial enquiry to handover.
Known for an enthusiastic, upbeat, and personable approach, coupled with an entrepreneurial flair for profitable solutions and proactive enquiry handling.
Skills
Exceptional communication Skills.
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Communicates and listens effectively at all levels and to all walks of life from high net worth individuals to difficult clients.
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Excellent sales and negotiation skills. Proven ability to build rapport, overcome objections profitably, and close deals.
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Active listener, able to think and respond with solutions smoothly.
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Thinks on his feet and can respond creatively, positively in a professional manner.
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Customer Relationship Management: Expert in providing excellent customer service from enquiry to handover, listening to wants and desires, and offering solutions.
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Always uses strong product knowledge to create desire.
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Strong empathetic client and 'people skills'
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Entrepreneurial Flair: Highly ambitious and results-driven with a track record of setting up and growing successful businesses.
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Proactive Lead Generation & Prospecting: Experienced in attracting and converting enquiries through innovative methods (e.g., video walkarounds).
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Tenacious, does not give up easily
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A proven ability to work calmly under pressure
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Very positive outlook to life and work
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Able to present to large audiences smoothly
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High level of I.T. skills in many areas
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Very fast learner, product knowledge is key
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The ability to motivate and lead
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Literate with spreadsheets, presentations, graphics & documents.
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Extensive knowledge from experience in Mechanics & Automotive systems
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Independent & Team Player: Capable of working effectively autonomously while also contributing positively to a stable sales team.
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Financial Acumen: Proficient in managing F&I products and mastering pricing strategies for profitability.
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Formerly FCA registered and proficient with regulated products and practices.
Communication
Effective communicator, adept at understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions, fostering trust and rapport.
Negotiation
Skilled in negotiation tactics, securing perceived favourable deals for clients while maintaining good profits and strong relationships with clients.
Sales
Proven track record in sales, consistently exceeding targets through strategic planning and execution. An energetic, tenacious goal getter!
Lead Generation
Expert in lead generation, utilizing innovative strategies to attract potential clients and expand business reach.
Experience
Professional Journey
Work Experience:
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Partner | CatCarz 24 LTD, www.catcarz.co.uk| 02/2024 – Present
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•Successfully set up and ran a used car dealership from inception, specialising in lightly damaged Category N vehicles.
•Generated £667,000 in sales within the first year, demonstrating strong market penetration and sales drive.
Streamlined and minimised costs increasing profit per unit, showcasing entrepreneurial flair and effective pricing strategies.
•Cultivated exceptional customer satisfaction, reflected in a 4.9 out of 5-star rating on Google reviews, proving a commitment to providing a 5-star service.
•Pioneered virtual video walkarounds for every vehicle, significantly attracting distance business and proactive enquiry handling.
•Managed comprehensive aftersales operations, ensuring high levels of customer service and repeat business.
Partner | iDeal Web Cars, Burgess Hill | 05/2017 – 02/2024
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•Established and grew a used car dealership from the ground up, consistently exceeding sales objectives.
•Increased sales from £695,000 in the first year to over £1 million by the third year, highlighting strong sales acumen and business development skills.
•Achieved RAC approved dealer status within two years, demonstrating a commitment to quality and customer trust.
•Maintained a stellar 4 out of 5-star feedback rating on Social Media and Google reviews, showcasing excellent customer rapport.
•Mastered pricing strategies for part exchanges, ensuring both profitability and high customer satisfaction.
•Managed aftersales operations, guaranteeing ongoing customer service excellence.
Sales Manager / Business Owner | iDeal Motors, Sayers Common & Hurstpierpoint | 02/2008 – 02/2016
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•Forged a highly successful used car dealership from the ground up.•Boosted annual turnover to £1.2 Million, demonstrating exceptional sales leadership and target achievement.
•Introduced innovative online video virtual sales tours, enhancing the customer buying experience and reach.
•Expanded inventory to over 70 cars, effectively collaborating with trade partners.
Sales Manager, European Computer Memory Module Market | Buffalo Technology UK Ltd | 01/2005 – 02/2008
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•Achieved consistent top salesman accolades, showcasing a strong drive to exceed targets.
•Demonstrated extensive product knowledge and strong negotiation skills.
•Built & motivated a team of 3 sales people to further increase the business.
Sales
Used Car Sales Professional
Always achieving top sales performances through strategic marketing, organisation and exceptional customer service.
Management
Team Leadership Role
Managed operations and trained staff, resulting in a collaborative environment that drove productivity and growth. Can present to audiences confidently and professionally.
Entrepreneurship
Business Owner Success
Founded several local dealerships, applying innovative business strategies to thrive in a competitive market.
E-Commerce
Online Sales Growth
Developed an e-commerce platform that enhanced online presence and increased sales through targeted digital marketing strategies.
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Pioneered Video Walk around virtual viewings in 2008!
Technology
Tech-Savvy Approach
Embraced technology to streamline processes, improving efficiency and client engagement in all transactions.