Embracing variety: Michael's path on the sales ladder at Parkdean

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. Great sales jobs at Parkdean can give you just that and more.

Having the opportunity to move across departments can not only expand your skills and allow you to discover your passions, but it can also lead to personal growth and adaptability.

We sat 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 working in sales can lead to personal growth, unforgettable adventures, and a fulfilling professional life so sit back, relax, and take on board Michael’s guidance.

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 three and a half years.

Could you walk us through your career journey on the sales ladder 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 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 in entry-level sales positions and supporting parks with virtual training sessions.

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 travel around and see new places.

I then saw the opportunity to work locally at Whitley Bay as a Sales Manager, which has allowed me to utilise the sales 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 the job of sales on our parks?

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. 

I have a wife, two kids, and a dog and want them to be able to see their dad do well in his job. It’s important to me to be at home more 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 just that. We also get to holiday at Parkdean using the employee discount so it’s a win-win all around!

What does a typical day in your role look like?

A typical day for me begins with the team. 

We 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 make sure we have the correct stock, ensuring that customers are happy and receiving their quotes, 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. 

However, since being on the 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 for 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 heavily. It was an experience!

Find the best sales jobs at Parkdean

Your career journey should be an adventure, and the best adventures are filled with variety, surprises, and personal growth. 

Don't be afraid to embrace the uncharted territories of different roles and industries, including Holiday Home Sales. The job of sales at Parkdean can really be a life-changing career. 

It's not just about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about crafting a career that reflects your unique interests and passions. 

Explore our sales roles and apply to join the team - the team that has an engagement rate higher than the industry average for the hospitality sector might we add!