Embracing Variety: Michael's Path to Progression, Growth and Sales Management.

In today's ever-evolving job market, the traditional, cookie-cutter career path is quickly losing its charm. Instead, picture your career as a thrilling journey filled with diverse experiences, unique challenges, and opportunities to learn and grow. Having the opportunity to move across departments and areas at Parkdean Resorts can not only expand your skill set and allow you to discover your passions, but it can also lead to personal growth and adaptability and help you stay engaged.

In this blog, we sit down with Michael Price, Holiday Home Sales Manager at Whitley Bay Holiday Park, who has enjoyed diving into the wonderful world of adding variety to your career. Michael speaks about how it can lead to personal growth, unforgettable adventures, and a fulfilling professional life.

How long have you worked for Parkdean Resorts and when did you join?

I joined the business in March of 2021 and have been here for 2.5 years.

Could you walk us through your career journey so far?

 I joined the Ownership Enquiries Team as a Sales Team Leader which was a great foundation for me to build upon. I met some amazing people in the central support office in Newcastle and built up some strong working relationships. I then moved into the Learning and Development team as a holiday home sales trainer, delivering the Sales Academy to new starters and supporting parks with virtual training sessions on a Monday and Friday. I visited parks in the Northeast, Yorkshire and the whole of Scotland. I really enjoyed this role as I had the opportunity to help develop people in their roles, as well as visit other parks. I then saw the opportunity to work locally at Whitley Bay as a Sales Manager, which I feel has allowed me to utilise the skills I have obtained and use them to help the park to achieve its goals.

What motivated you to move from a central support role to a career in sales on park?

My background is mainly training; however, I have also managed teams in the past when I worked in a factory and in utility companies. Each step I have taken at Parkdean Resorts has been for self-progression. I love to feel a sense of achievement and receive recognition for doing a good job. Not only this, I also have a wife, 2 kids and a dog (Collette, Charlie who is 9, Poppy who is 5 and Pippa 1.5 😊) and want them to be able to see their dad do well in his job, and also be more at home and be able to do things and take them places as a family. The progression I have experienced at Parkdean has allowed me to do this. We also get to holiday at Parkdean Resorts' parks and the whole family really enjoy it!

What does a typical day in your new role involve?

A typical day for me begins with the team. We would have a quick catch up to see where we are at performance wise, as well as discuss what the plan is for the day. I would also be working on making sure we have the correct stock, making sure that customers are happy, quoting customers, propping them to finance and coaching the team. Looking for new opportunities throughout the week is also a key part of the role.

What’s your next goal, what drives you professionally?

Initially I would have said that my goal would be to move into a Regional Sales Manager position once I had gained more experience on park. However, since being on park and seeing how my General Manager Jonny works, I now potentially see myself progressing into a General Manager role, as I feel I have that same passion and energy for doing the right thing by the park and our customers.

Your best Parkdean Resorts memory?

I have too many to list! One that stands out to me is when I was training and taking new people out on the park tours. This one time it began to really thunder and lightning and it was raining really heavy. It was an experience!

Your career journey should be an adventure, and the best adventures are filled with variety, surprises, and personal growth. So, don't be afraid to embrace the uncharted territories of different roles and industries, including Holiday Home Sales. It's not just about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about crafting a career that reflects your unique interests and passions. Let your journey be your guide to personal growth, incredible adventures, and a career that's truly fulfilling. Your future self will be grateful for the exciting path you've chosen.

Explore our sales roles and apply to join the team!