Efficiency for Business Transformation

Interview with Jean-Bernard Salvan, Interim Manager at TOPS Ressources

At TOPS Ressources, interim management is not just about resolving emergency situations: it is a real opportunity for transformation and growth.

Today, we have the great pleasure of talking to Jean-Bernard Salvan, one of our Interim Managers whose expertise and results speak for themselves.

Jean-Bernard, tell us about your background before joining TOPS Ressources?

I have spent over 30 years in operational roles across a variety of sectors, primarily in B2B. I have held positions as Sales Representative, CMO, and Profit Center Director, both in France and abroad.

My experience has been gained in industries such as heavy industry, technical services and services associated with turnkey solutions.

For 10 years, I have specialized in Business Development consulting, helping companies improve their commercial efficiency and boost their sales.

Why did you choose to join TOPS Ressources?

TOPS Ressources offered me a perspective that immediately appealed to me: the opportunity to work on part-time assignments. This allows me to continue my consulting work while facing true operational challenges.

Each assignment is a unique opportunity to bring proven field expertise to the table, with tangible results to deliver quickly. It's a perfect balance between rigor, flexibility, and impact.

What expertise do you bring to your roles at TOPS Ressources?

I distinguish myself through a highly operational approach to sales, whether it involves products, turnkey industrial installations, or associated services. My expertise is balanced between two pillars: on the one hand, the profitability of commercial contracts, and on the other, customer satisfaction.

As an Interim Manager, I also bring proven, structured tools and processes to help companies prioritize their efforts. In addition, my ability to listen and understand the real needs of clients has allowed me to successfully align internal teams with strategic business objectives.

 What types of companies do you support and for what challenges?

I mainly work with SMEs and mid-cap companies in industrial or technological sectors, often with medium to large sales teams.

My missions generally concern transformation issues: repositioning a commercial offer, structuring a development strategy, or even optimizing team performance.

The general management or sales managers with whom I work particularly appreciate my ability to quickly produce measurable results.

Can you give us a concrete example of a mission?

Recently, TOPS Ressources and I worked with an industrial SME looking to restructure its sales team and maximize its sales potential. The main challenge was to prioritize business opportunities and optimize processes.

In just a few months, we managed to define priority targets, structure effective KPIs, and implement a clear acquisition strategy. The results were quickly visible: a significant increase in sales while strengthening team cohesion.

What are your major strengths as an Interim Manager?

On the technical side, I would say project management, in-depth discovery of customer needs, and experience in complex negotiations.

On the human side, my soft skills, such as listening, empathy, and results-oriented approach, are the foundation of my methodology. I enjoy working with different levels of the company—general management, sales teams, and support functions—to define cross-functional action plans and create a real collective impact.

A word about your passions outside of work?

I enjoy working outdoors, especially on forestry projects which allow me to recharge my batteries.

I am also very involved in the DIRCOLAB association, where I share my skills by supporting initiatives related to leadership and collaboration in the professional field.

---

Jean-Bernard Salvan embodies the essence of interim management according to TOPS Ressources: field expertise, a tailor-made approach and an ability to meet challenges with rigor and creativity.

To learn more about how Jean-Bernard and how our Interim Managers can transform your challenges into opportunities, contact us!

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS

TOPS Ressources, Executive Interim Management in C-level functions: CEO, CFO, HR Director, Supply Chain Manager, Transformation Director, Sales Director, etc.