Business Improvement Manager; VA

IBMG
Independent Builders Merchants Group (IBMG) is one of the UK’s leading building materials merchant groups, bringing together a strong network of well-established local merchant brands. With branches across the South of England and beyond, IBMG supplies building materials, timber, plumbing & heating, roofing and specialist products to trade professionals and customers.
IBMG combines the local knowledge and customer focus of independent merchants with the scale, support and buying power of a national group. Each brand retains its identity, while benefiting from shared systems, investment and long-term growth strategy.
The group is committed to developing its people, supporting local communities, and building a sustainable future for the construction supply industry. IBMG offers a dynamic working environment with opportunities to grow, learn and build a long-term career.

We’re looking for a reliable Business Improvement Manager to join our Barnstaple Branch. This is a key role in ensuring our branch continues to deliver excellent service to both trade and retail customers.

The Business Improvement Manager is responsible for making branch operations easier and more efficient by improving how systems, processes and technology are used across the Group. By enabling Branch Managers and their teams to work more effectively, the role frees up time for them to focus on top-line sales and delivering exceptional customer service.

A core focus is improving ways of working - ensuring teams understand what needs to be done, why it matters, and how to use systems to their full capability while avoiding siloed approaches. The role also strengthens stock accuracy so colleagues and customers can trust that the right products are in the right place at the right time.

The Business Improvement Manager supports branches in protecting bottom-line profit through clear controls and consistent processes in key operational areas such as stock, sales and finance. Acting as the “glue” between branch operations and central support, the role provides focused, consistent support that respects divisional identity while driving Group-wide alignment.

Reporting to the Group Operations Director, the role works closely with senior management, branch managers and branch teams to ensure excellent customer service every day, underpinned by robust stock management and effective operational practices.

• Strong understanding of branch operations, with solid knowledge of business processes and procedures, particularly within Kerridge and Power BI.
• Well-organised, with the ability to plan, prioritise and manage workload effectively.
• Confident IT user, comfortable working with a range of systems and digital tools.
• Skilled negotiator, engaging in communication and able to manage upwards effectively.
• Effective problem solver, able to quickly identify operational challenges and work collaboratively to create practical solutions.
• Process-minded, with a genuine interest in helping teams understand, follow and improve systems and procedures.
• Adaptable, comfortable adjusting to different branch environments, personalities and operational needs.
• Proactive, consistently looking for ways to enhance branch efficiency without needing to be asked.
• Tech-confident, comfortable using and teaching systems, tools and technology.
• Resilient and positive, maintaining a constructive approach even when facing resistance or complex issues.
• Strong communicator, able to explain concepts clearly and provide supportive, effective feedback.
• Relationship-builder, developing strong working relationships across branches, management and support teams.

Strong understanding of branch operations, with solid knowledge of business processes and procedures particularly within Kerridge and Power

BI. Must have a full driving licence