Open to opportunities

Calvin Poliah

@calvinpoliah

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Senior business leader and managing director scaling automotive paint and tool operations.

South Africa

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What I'm looking for

I’m seeking a senior remote management or sales role within a stable, forward-thinking organisation where I can drive strategy, lead teams, and strengthen customer relationships for long-term growth.

I’m a results-driven Senior Business Leader and Managing Director with over 25 years of experience in the automotive paint and tools industry. I built and scaled Paint & Tool KZN, reaching a R400,000 average monthly turnover while managing key accounts including Toyota, CSE, and Heavy Lift Equipment.

I lead with strategic planning, Sales & Operations executive operations, and hands-on customer relationship management to drive growth and retention. I oversee day-to-day operations (inventory control, quality assurance, distribution, and resource allocation), formulate marketing strategies, and manage teams of 7 through recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and HR leadership.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Business Owner & Managing Director

Current

Paint & Tool KZN

Feb 2006 - Present (20 years 5 months)

Built and scaled Paint & Tool KZN as a senior business leader, managing day-to-day operations, inventory and supply chain, and key customer accounts. Led strategic business planning, marketing, team leadership, and customer relationship management.

Strategic Planning SALES AND OPERATIONS Strategic Leadership Operations Management Marketing Strategy Account Management Customer Relationship Management Team Leadership Recruitment Onboarding Performance Management Financial Management Inventory Control Inventory Management Product Innovation Product Development

Accounts & Sales Manager / Counter

Auto Colour Matching Centre

Jan 1995 - Jul 2006 (11 years 6 months)

Managed key accounts (including Toyota Group and panel beaters) and supported long-term customer relationships. Maintained finance and accounting systems using Sage and advanced Excel, led sales meetings, and negotiated contracts and pricing agreements.