Commercial Manager

We are proud to be working on behalf of a leading food manufacturer of high quality products.  They are now looking to recruit a Commercial Manager to join them on a full time and permanent basis.

Reports to: Marketing & Sales Director

Role Purpose

• Manage a diverse range of customer accounts across different channels.
• Oversee the profitable growth of food manufacturing and food service sales.
• Identify and evaluate additional profitable opportunities.
• Supervise the Sales Manager.
• Support the sales team, customer service team, and NPD.
• Serve as the primary contact for account-specific matters.
• Manage and coordinate all business-wide projects related to your accounts.
• Build and maintain strong, enduring customer relationships.
• Achieve all relevant KPIs.

Requirements

• Advanced commercial skills and proficiency in margin analysis.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities, both internally and externally.
• Site-based with travel to customers and the option for some home working.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
• Promote a collaborative, positive, and solution-oriented team culture.

Key Responsibilities

People Management

1. Lead the Sales Manager, ensuring maximisation of opportunities and margins while achieving KPIs.
2. Be well-acquainted with all accounts, providing support and guidance as needed.

Relationship Management

1. Maintain strong, collaborative relationships with customers to ensure the business is their preferred supplier.
2. Keep accurate, up-to-date records of all customer interactions and share relevant information to maintain high customer satisfaction.
3. Regularly communicate account-related information to all relevant stakeholders.

Account Management

Develop and implement customer strategies to meet growth targets in sales, margin, volume, and NPD.

Increase product penetration in alignment with company goals and personal KPIs.

Maintain and improve margin performance.

Conduct market analysis, including competitor products, packaging, USPs, and marketing strategies.

Assess and provide feedback on NPD/EPD to drive growth and stability.

Attend networking events and industry trade shows to support these objectives.

Become an expert, fully understanding and sharing the USPs of the business.

Project Management

1. Oversee all projects related to your accounts, acting as the central point of contact for both internal and external stakeholders.
2. Ensure project plans and actions are well-structured, communicated, and delivered on time.
3. Maintain a continuous improvement mindset, seeking ways to enhance project outcomes for the business and customers.

Qualifications and Experience

Extensive experience in B2B sales, ideally within the food manufacturing sector.

Ability to perform under pressure and meet strict deadlines.

Excellent communication skills and proficiency in Excel.

Strong analytical and data skills.

Experience in project management.

Proven track record of effective teamwork.

Experience in food service or the dairy industry is advantageous.

A background in food science or technology is a plus.