General Sales Manager in Training - CT Area

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for building high-performing teams, delivering outstanding guest experiences, and driving sales performance? Join Factory Direct Enterprises LLC, one of the largest licensees of Ashley Furniture. With strong earning potential, robust benefits, and a culture focused on development and recognition, this is your opportunity to lead with impact. Join a team honored by Furniture Today as one of the Best Places to Work in Furniture for 2025.

About Us

FDE represents Ashley, the number one selling furniture brand in the world and the leading retailer of furniture and bedding in the United States.

Compensation and Benefits

We offer one of the most competitive compensation packages in the retail industry:

• Base salary ranging from $65,000 to $80,000 based on experience, qualifications, and store assignment
• Annual bonus opportunities with potential to earn up to $89,700 in additional pay, based on performance and company results
• Paid 13-week leadership training program through the Ashley Sales Academy
• Quarterly and annual awards to recognize top performance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off, holiday pay, and a paid day off for your birthday
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage with plans starting at $25 per week
• Employee discounts on products and services
• Referral bonuses of up to $1,000 for recommending successful candidates
• Eligibility for the FDE G3 Profit-Sharing Program, rewarding team members based on company and store performance outcomes

Our Culture and Team Member Programs

At FDE, we value a culture of recognition, growth, and support. Our team programs and feedback channels are designed to help our people succeed both personally and professionally:

• Hope to Dream: Helps provide beds to children in need through proceeds from mattress sales
• Give a Day: Paid time off annually to volunteer with a recognized non-profit organization
• Corporate Chaplains: Confidential support for life challenges such as grief, family, and wellness needs
• Life Resources: Quarterly sessions focused on finances, relationships, and health
• Team Member Relief Fund: Financial assistance during unexpected life events
• SmartDollar: Free financial wellness platform for budgeting, saving, and debt reduction

Your Role: General Sales Manager

The General Sales Manager is responsible for overseeing the full sales operation within their assigned location. This role involves developing and executing sales strategies, managing a high-performing team, and ensuring all sales objectives are achieved. The General Sales Manager leads by example, staying Positioned to Impact (P2I) on the floor, driving results through coaching, planning, and collaboration with other departments. You will have a designated 'Home Store' at one of our Connecticut locations; Milford, Hamden - with the expectation for you to be flexible in working location according to meet the business need. 

Key Responsibilities

Sales Strategy and Leadership
• Create and execute comprehensive sales strategies to meet revenue and profitability goals
• Analyze sales trends and data to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for growth
• Set and monitor clear performance goals for all sales roles
• Provide regular coaching, direction, and performance feedback to sales managers and team members

FDE’s Sales Leadership Processes
• Manage staffing levels to align with store traffic and turnover
• Oversee onboarding and cultural integration of new team members
• Support development and performance management of all team members
• Ensure consistent execution of the Ashley Proven Sales Process
• Lead prospecting and follow-up efforts to grow the customer base
• Ensure compliance and high standards across all sales activities
• Maintain active presence on the sales floor to coach in real-time (Position to Impact)

Leadership Development
• Apply principles from FDE’s Leadership Toolkit
• Participate in leadership and vendor training, manager meetings, and development sessions
• Mentor future leaders including Sales Managers, Assistant Managers, and Trusted Advisors

Daily Store Operations
• Lead daily huddles and coaching scrimmages to set the tone for the team
• Assign team opportunities and assist with guest interactions
• Guide team members in developing sales techniques and exceeding KPIs

Sales and Business Performance
• Achieve store-specific sales budgets by managing team execution and staffing-to-traffic ratios
• Improve sales performance in areas such as close rate, average sale, and sales per guest
• Track and manage key metrics including protection plan sales, sleep category, net margin, financing applications, and appointment rates
• Monitor and improve Net Promoter Score (NPS) and reduce Total Piece Exception Rate

Showroom and Compliance Standards
• Lead weekly Perfect Store Visit meetings to maintain operational alignment
• Ensure the store remains clean, organized, and guest-ready
• Regularly coach, assist, and manage team performance through active engagement

Schedule Requirements

• Full-time, minimum of 40 hours per week including weekends
• Additional hours may be required during peak periods, holidays, or business needs
• Two scheduled days off per week, excluding holidays or blackout periods
• Regular, in-person attendance at the assigned store is required

Qualifications

• High motivation, strong leadership mindset, and excellent interpersonal skills
• Experience in retail leadership, sales management, or a similar role required
• Ability to drive performance through accountability, coaching, and team development
• Skilled in managing priorities, solving problems, and making data-informed decisions
• Strong communication and organizational abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); ability to learn internal systems

Job Type

Full-time

Benefits

• Health insurance


• Dental insurance


• Vision insurance


• Life insurance


• Paid time off


• 401(k) with employer match


• Employee discount

#ANE2