Merial Territory Managers have taken the first three places at the British Excellence in Sales & Marketing Awards, beating off competition from over 100 other entries, including those from household names such as Virgin, npower and DHL.

Merial's Andi Collins was named Sales Professional of the Year (companies over 50 employees), while her colleagues Emma McAnally and Stephen Booth came second and third respectively.  In the eyes of the judges it was their ability to listen, ask questions and then develop insightful business proposals that set them apart.

Merial National Sales Training Manager, Tony Jones said: "At Merial we believe our responsive, well-trained Territory Managers are a great resource for vets.  A resource that we are only too happy to see practices use to the fullest extent.  We expect our people to do their utmost to find out what a  practice's needs really are and then work to deliver the requirements."

The judges recognised the quality of the Merial candidates and their training and also the value this brings to veterinary customers.  Andi's commendation said:  "Her questioning was very strong, undertaking a fact-find in a relaxed manner which gained empathy and importantly she did not try and propose a solution until she had completed her questioning, to gain a full background of the situation in hand."

Nigel Slater, Head of Companion Animal Sales at Merial said: "I am delighted for Andi, Emma and Stephen. These awards are also a huge endorsement of the training investment we make here at Merial.  An investment that independent surveys show is highly regarded by successful veterinary practices."

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.