What makes a good sales manager?
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A portrait picture of sales manager Deborah Searle

What makes a good sales manager?


Tuesday, 04 June 2024

Meet sales manager Deborah Searle

As a sales manager, Deborah Searle's day involves a dynamic range of responsibilities. From customers walking in and taking a tour of the village, to furbishing homes for sale and organising village events, she is an integral part of the Parkland Villas Woodlands team. And in fact, she is so good at her job that she was recently awarded the title of WA Sales Manager of the Year by the National Retirement Living Awards.

With such a big industry recognition, there was no one better to ask what makes a good sales manager - and to get to know the person behind the award.

How would you describe your job to someone you have just met? 

My job is different each day and so rewarding. I love meeting and hearing all the stories of our new residents when they are making their final and very important move into the village. I love being part of the village and seeing them settle into village life after the stress of the actual move which often they are doing on their own after the loss of a partner.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

There are no typical days in this job which is what I love about it. I can be doing tours with potential residents, replying to enquiries from our Customer Service Team, organising display furniture, cleans and photographers, managing my database and waitlist, holding community events with local organisations and groups, doing pre-settlement inspections and managing the front desk when the village team are busy! There is never a dull moment.

In your opinion, what qualities make a great sales manager? 

Being able to listen to see what our customer's needs are, and having a passion for retirement living, honesty and integrity, especially when dealing with questions regarding our contract types.

How would you describe yourself in 3 words? 

Hardworking, loyal and fun!

You have won the WA Sales Manager of the Year award at the National Retirement Living Awards 2024 and are now in the running for the national Sales Manager of the Year award. What does this recognition mean to you? 

It really means a lot to be recognised by my peers for the job that I love doing. It also is great for the village team and the sales team as in my eyes it is the whole team that this award reflects on, not just one person.

What do you like most about working at Keyton? 

I love the sales team that I work with as we all help each other, respect each other and enjoy working together. Also my village team as it is the team that makes a village a great place to live and work and they create that happy vibrant atmosphere which is so important for residents, and also for any prospective residents visiting the village as they can feel that when they first arrive.

What do you like to do when you are not working? 

I love travelling and exploring this great country that we live in and going to those off-the-grid places with my husband. I also love seeing my first grandchild Archie who is just growing so quickly. He is like a sponge and such a joy to be with.


Find out more about Parkland Villas Woodlands or learn more about careers at Keyton.

For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550 or send us an email here.

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