Jay Wilkinson

Experienced and adaptable sales professional with a strong background in customer service, relationship building, business development, administration and commercial decision-making. Currently working as a Sales Consultant for Kia PBV at Pentagon Lincoln, supporting customers and businesses with vehicle solutions from initial enquiry through to quotation and sale. Previous experience includes founding and running an AI solutions business, professional HGV driving, and customer-facing optical roles.

Confident communicating with a wide range of customers, working to deadlines, managing competing priorities and using initiative in fast-moving environments.

Sales Consultant – Kia PBV at Pentagon Lincoln (2026-05 – Present)

• Manage customer enquiries and sales opportunities across Kia's PBV range, providing professional guidance based on customer and business requirements.
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships throughout the sales process, from initial enquiry and product consultation through to quotation and order.
• Prepare vehicle quotations and commercial proposals, clearly explaining vehicle specifications, finance and contract-hire options where applicable.
• Follow up leads proactively, identify customer requirements and progress opportunities towards a successful sale.
• Arrange and support vehicle demonstrations and test drives, ensuring customers receive a positive and informative buying experience.
• Work closely with colleagues and other departments to coordinate vehicle availability, orders and customer requirements.
• Maintain a high standard of customer service while working towards sales targets and managing multiple opportunities in a fast-paced dealership environment.

Published Author / Class 1 HGV Driver at Agency Assignments / Independent (2024-01 – 2026-05)

• Worked as a Class 1 HGV Driver through agency assignments, delivering a reliable and professional service across varied operational environments.
• Published two books, Spirit: The Kingdom and Spirit: The Grove, released in 2024, demonstrating independent project management, creativity, discipline and self-motivation.
• Sold over 4,000 units of published work, requiring independent promotion, customer engagement and commercial awareness.
• Balanced professional driving work with the planning, production and marketing of independent publishing projects.

Yard Shunter & Class 1 Driver at Turners (2023-02 – 2024-01)

• Operated yard shunting equipment to safely move trailers and containers.
• Ensured adherence to safety protocols, creating a secure environment for personnel and equipment.
• Coordinated with dispatchers to prioritise trailer movements based on delivery requirements.
• Conducted pre- and post-trip HGV inspections, maintaining vehicle roadworthiness.
• Planned and optimised delivery routes to enhance efficiency and reduce delays.
• Maintained clear communication with dispatchers, providing progress updates and addressing issues.

CEO & Founder at Spirit A.I. Solutions (2019-03 – 2022-12)

• Directed strategic planning to align AI solutions with client goals, identifying market trends and commercial opportunities.
• Managed a team of five, fostering collaboration and ensuring successful project delivery.
• Built strong client relationships, contributing to repeat business and long-term partnerships.
• Oversaw the design and implementation of custom AI solutions to improve client efficiency.
• Managed project lifecycles from conception to delivery, ensuring projects met deadlines and budgets.
• Monitored budgets, optimised resources and maintained profitability without compromising quality.

Data Administrator at Nikon Optical (2018-07 – 2019-02)

• Managed and updated databases, ensuring accuracy and integrity of optical product information.
• Streamlined administrative workflows, improving efficiency in data processing.

Optical Assistant at Vision Express (2014-02 – 2018-07)

• Assisted customers in selecting appropriate eyewear and provided expert advice on optical products.
• Conducted preliminary eye tests and supported optometrists in delivering high standards of customer care.
• Maintained inventory, ensuring product availability and smooth store operations.

Optical Assistant at Tesco Opticians (2007-04 – 2013-04)

• Provided customer-facing optical support and advice.
• Supported day-to-day store operations and maintained high standards of customer service.

BTEC First Diploma in Business

GCSEs in English and Mathematics