TGt Meets...John Beales, General Sales Manager at Volvo Cars Poole

Total Guide to Dorset had the incredible opportunity to interview John Beales, the general sales manager at Volvo Cars Poole, and ask him a plethora of brilliant questions which you can view below...

When did you start working for Volvo Cars Poole?

I began working as General Sales Manager for Volvo Cars Poole in December 2022. Volvo Cars Poole is owned by Ocean Automotive, who also own Poole Audi. I had previously been working at Poole Audi for eight years and was very excited by this new opportunity. 

How long have you been working in the automotive industry? 

Poole Audi was my first job in the automotive industry, which began in April 2014. I started my career a sales specialist, then over the years progressed to a transaction manager. This allowed me to gain skills and experience that led me to my job role now.

What encouraged you to move to Volvo Cars Poole?

I was given the opportunity to come to Volvo Cars Poole on secondment, learn about the job and meet the team. I felt this would be a great opportunity for my career. Over my secondment I really enjoyed the responsibilities and challenges that came with the role. At the end of the three months, I was offered the job on a permanent basis and very happily accepted. 

What do you like most about your new role as General Sales Manager? 

I have really enjoyed learning all about a new brand. I also get to work within a smaller team and the interaction between colleagues is more personable. I like that I can put focus on the team and encourage everyone to grasp opportunities. I am looking forward to helping people learn, offering our customers an exceptional experience and continuing to make a positive impact.

What’s been your favourite experience whilst working in the automotive industry? 

My favourite experience was when I visited Munich and drove to the Alps for a product launch. I also got to drive competitors’ equivalent models. It gave me a great insight into different vehicles, and it was an amazing adventure to go on whilst training. 

What’s great about working for Volvo Cars Poole? 

The support from the Head of Business and from my fellow colleagues over the last few months has been fantastic. I have thoroughly enjoyed gaining new knowledge and I’m still learning more every day. I am part of a strong team and I have great confidence in Volvo as a brand. 

What’s your favourite Volvo?

My favourite car is the Volvo XC90. It’s a very safe, comfortable car and it drives superbly. I have three children and its big enough to fit all my family our equipment!

Tell us something interesting about yourself? 

In a previous career of mine, I used to work on super yachts. I was lucky enough at one point to be working on a boat in the Bahamas when Tiger Woods came onboard. I then got the chance to give him a tour of the yacht.

To find out more about Volvo Cars Poole visit their website here.