Hire Controller

Company Overview

Ainscough Crane Hire is the foremost crane rental company in the UK, operating from over 30 locations. Our dedicated workforce is committed to completing projects punctually, within budget, and adhering to the highest safety standards. Our Make the Safe Choice ethos drives all our activities, including contract lifts, crane hire, and specialized projects, supported by a workplace culture that empowers employees to take pride in their roles.

Job Purpose

The Hire Controller manages the depot’s fleet and resources to ensure effective utilization and assists the depot manager in daily operations. The role focuses on maximizing revenue and profitability by efficiently renting cranes and ancillary equipment while achieving operational targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze customer needs and recommend optimal hire solutions.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of company products and services.
• Convert hire inquiries into confirmed orders to meet revenue goals.
• Identify and seize all potential sales opportunities.
• Record and update customer information accurately.
• Build and maintain strong internal and supplier relationships.
• Efficiently allocate work and manage fleet resources within the depot.
• Support the achievement of overall business objectives and adhere to company standards.
• Respond promptly to customer inquiries with professionalism.
• Control operating costs effectively.
• Ensure timely and accurate completion of administrative tasks and records.
• Comply with all legislative, health, safety, and environmental policies.
• Demonstrate flexibility by handling out-of-hours calls as needed.

Person Specification

Education and Experience:

• Minimum GCSEs at grade C or equivalent in Maths and English.
• Experience in equipment rental preferred but not mandatory.
• Strong telephone communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Familiarity with CRM software such as Salesforce is advantageous.

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent customer service and telephone etiquette.
• Effective negotiation skills with a commercial mindset.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Capability to resolve conflicts efficiently.
• Ability to influence stakeholders positively.
• Strong problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Retention bonus paid bi-annually.
• 24 days of annual leave plus additional days awarded after 2, 5, and subsequent five-year periods.
• Option to purchase an extra 5 days of holiday per year through salary sacrifice.
• Group life insurance providing coverage of three times the basic salary.
• Employer pension contribution of 4% with a 5% employee contribution.
• Online systems to access payslips, manage holidays, and update personal information.
• Access to the Ainscough Advantage staff benefits platform.
• Opportunities to contribute through thrice-annual staff forums.

Additional Information

This is a permanent, full-time role based at the Cardiff depot. The salary offered is competitive. The candidate will be expected to work flexibly, including covering out-of-hours calls as necessary.