Company: Echelon Supply and Service

Position: Branch Manager

Location: Whitby, ON

Job Summary:

The Branch Manager plays a pivotal leadership role in managing the full scope of branch operations within a high-performing hydraulic and industrial hose distribution and service environment. This position is responsible for overseeing daily operations, building and developing a skilled team, driving sales growth, delivering technical support, and ensuring outstanding customer satisfaction across all touchpoints.

The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of fluid power systems, hose and fittings, industrial supply chain logistics, and team leadership. This role balances operational efficiency with technical service excellence, and functions as the primary driver of local business performance, profitability, and strategic growth initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

• Direct and manage all branch functions including sales, service, production (hose assembly), inventory control, logistics, and administration.
• Ensure efficient and safe daily operations while achieving productivity, quality, and service standards.
• Monitor and improve internal workflows to reduce bottlenecks, enhance output, and maximize customer satisfaction.
• Oversee facility maintenance, equipment calibration, and adherence to safety regulations (OSHA and company standards).
  

Sales & Customer Relations

• Lead local sales efforts, identify growth opportunities, and work closely with the outside sales team to expand the customer base.
• Develop and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key clients, providing technical support and ensuring excellent service delivery.
• Manage the will-call counter and walk-in business, ensuring quick, knowledgeable, and professional service at all times.
• Resolve escalated customer issues and complaints with urgency and professionalism.

Financial & Business Management

• Own branch P&L responsibility: manage budgets, control expenses, and drive revenue growth.
• Analyze sales trends, operational metrics, and financial data to drive informed decisions.
• Report performance indicators and strategic updates to senior leadership on a regular basis.

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, onboard, train, and develop a high-performing team including inside sales, service technicians, warehouse, and counter staff.
• Foster a positive team culture focused on accountability, technical expertise, customer service, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct performance reviews, establish KPIs, and develop individual and team goals.

Inventory & Supply Chain

• Oversee accurate inventory management and demand planning for hose, fittings, and industrial supply components.
• Work with purchasing teams and vendors to maintain optimal stock levels and minimize lead times.
• Implement and monitor cycle counts and inventory audits to ensure accuracy and product availability.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5–7 years of experience in the industrial or hydraulic hose industry, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of hydraulic and industrial hose products, fittings, adapters, fluid conveyance systems, and industry applications.
• Proven leadership ability in operations, logistics, and team development.
• Strong understanding of P&L, budgeting, forecasting, and business planning.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills.
• High degree of technical aptitude with mechanical products and hose assembly practices.
• Experience working with ERP systems, CRM software, and inventory management platforms.
• Forklift and equipment operation knowledge; certifications preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or industrial distribution is a strong plus.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking with hands-on execution.
• Mechanical and technical acumen.
• Sales and customer service orientation.
• Operational and process optimization mindset.
• Leadership, coaching, and team empowerment.
• Attention to detail and safety-driven practices.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and use of industrial equipment.
• Willingness to work in warehouse and shop environments.

Note: This position may require occasional travel to customer sites, training sessions, or regional meetings.

Echelon Supply and Service provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.