Lee Williamson
Senior sales and operations leader with extensive experience across the building, plumbing, construction, and trade supply sectors
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About
Senior sales and operations leader with extensive experience across the building, plumbing, construction, and trade supply sectors. Proven track record leading commercial operations, developing high-performing teams, and driving sustainable business growth across trade-focused environments. Strong background in sales leadership, branch and operational management, procurement, customer relationship management, pricing strategy, and supply chain coordination.
Recognised for building long-standing customer relationships, improving operational performance, and consistently delivering strong commercial outcomes.
Experience
Sales & Operations General Manager - Pipemakers NZ - New Zealand
(2021-01 - 2025-01)
Pipemakers NZ supplies products and solutions into the commercial construction and infrastructure sectors across New Zealand, servicing major contractors, developers, and trade customers.
- Led overall commercial and operational performance of the business
- Managed relationships with 18 major commercial construction clients
- Directed a team of 14 staff across sales, logistics, and operations
- Oversaw purchasing, inventory, freight logistics, and supplier negotiations
- Managed pricing strategies, quoting, and commercial contract negotiations
- Implemented operational systems and process improvements to improve efficiency
- Managed HR responsibilities including recruitment, training, and performance management
- Oversaw machinery, vehicle, and equipment maintenance programs
- Built strong commercial relationships across the construction sector
- Improved operational efficiency through new systems and procedures
- Successfully led cross-functional operational and sales teams
- Delivered consistent commercial performance in a competitive market
- Supported long-term customer retention and account growth
Senior Sales Representative - Western ITM - Auckland, New Zealand
(2017-01 - 2021-01)
Western ITM is a leading supplier to the commercial and residential construction sectors, providing timber, building products, and trade solutions across Auckland.
- Managed commercial and civil construction sector accounts
- Developed and grew new business opportunities across the region
- Sourced specialist and hard-to-find products for contractors and developers
- Managed urgent project supply requirements and time-critical orders
- Supported and mentored internal sales team members
- Coordinated between suppliers, contractors, and end users to ensure successful project delivery
- Built a customer base of more than 150 active trade accounts from scratch
- Consistently exceeded monthly and annual sales targets
- Developed strong long-term relationships across the construction industry
- Played a key role in supporting successful project delivery outcomes
Sales Representative / 2IC - Chesters Plumbing & Bathroom - New Zealand
(2015-01 - 2017-01)
Chesters Plumbing & Bathroom is a nationwide plumbing, bathroom, and trade supplies business servicing residential and commercial customers throughout New Zealand.
- Managed trade accounts across plumbing and construction sectors
- Developed new business opportunities and expanded the customer base
- Negotiated pricing agreements and supply contracts
- Supported day-to-day branch operations as Second-in-Charge
- Managed stock ordering and supplier procurement
- Assisted with staff recruitment and operational planning
- Expanded branch trade customer relationships and sales opportunities
- Built strong engagement with key trade customers and suppliers
- Successfully supported branch leadership and operational performance
Tradezone Manager - Mitre 10 MEGA Henderson - Henderson, New Zealand
(2014-01 - 2015-01)
- Managed Tradezone operations and commercial customer relationships
- Developed partnerships with builders, contractors, and commercial clients
- Negotiated pricing structures and supply agreements
- Managed project pricing, sourcing, and estimating requirements
- Ensured high service standards across trade customers
- Promoted into the Tradezone Manager role after six months
- Consistently exceeded trade sales targets
- Took on additional Health & Safety leadership responsibilities
- Received strong customer recognition for service and support
Sales Representative - Heatpump Guys - New Zealand
(2012-01 - 2013-01)
- Sold heating and cooling solutions to residential and commercial customers
- Conducted business development, cold calling, and networking activities
- Prepared installation quotes and project estimates
- Managed customer relationships and repeat business opportunities
- Exceeded KPI and sales targets
- Built a strong referral-based customer network
Owner / Operator - Flush 'N' Faucet Plumbing - Auckland, New Zealand
(2004-01 - 2012-01)
- Founded and managed a plumbing business servicing residential, commercial, and industrial clients
- Managed contracts, scheduling, staffing, and financial performance
- Led a team of up to seven staff
- Delivered plumbing installation, maintenance, and repair services
- Managed multiple projects ensuring delivery on time and within budget
- Grew the business from startup into an established trade operation
- Built a strong customer network across Auckland
- Developed long-term repeat client relationships
Apprentice / Plumber - Hyflo Plumbing & Gasfitting Ltd - New Zealand
(1999-01 - 2004-01)
Team Leader, Residential Installations - Connectics Gas Installation - New Zealand
(1998-01 - 1999-01)
Second Chef / Head Chef - Treveris Restaurant - New Zealand
(1996-01 - 1997-01)
Education
Registered Plumber - Plumbing - Plumbing Registration Board NZ
Plumbing Apprenticeship - Plumbing - Unitec
Hotel & Chef Training (Bar 1 & Bar 2) - Hospitality - Hotel & Chef Training School
