Senior National Account Manager (Remote)

Our client, a challenger brand within the branded sweets & confectionery sector is seeking a SNAM / Business Development Manager with a track record of targeting and onboarding national supermarket customers. You will be commercial minded, pro-active and solution focussed. A natural relationship builder and an open and honest communicator with a desire to make a mark and put a brand truly on the map.

You will share in their mission to establish a successful food brand that breaks the barriers in UK Retailers, allowing more customers to access exciting non-dairy alternatives. Working with the Managing Director and founders you will take ownership for the commercial growth strategy and in time build a winning sales team.

Our client is expanding their presence across several channels including Grocery, Convenience, Wholesale, High Street, Travel and Coffee. We are therefore looking for an all-rounder who can unlock growth across a wide mix of customers.

This is a rare chance to join a truly consumer led start-up and build a game-changing company.

The role would be perfect for a forward-thinking, ambitious Business Development Manager to join an ethical business that aligns with their values. There is genuine potential to be unlocked with this brand and the right person could catapult the organisation beyond £10m T/O in the next 3 years!

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will be responsible for;

• Leading the charge in the development of brand presence into new and existing customers
• Developing Market Map and Channel Strategy
• Identifying key customer personnel and building sustainable relationships
• Developing the category story to educate, inform and convince retailers.
• Identifying product format opportunities and wider market gains.
• Delivering growth and margin in line with agreed budgets
• Maintaining accurate forecasts to drive operational efficiency
• Inviting future commercial colleagues on the journey.
• Continue to promote the company values and proactive working culture.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Proven ability to open doors in large retailers/wholesalers on behalf of challenger brands. Exceptional at building sustainable commercial relationships with a complex and demanding customer base.
• A successful sales track record with an impulse and/or seasonal product range. Ideally across branded confectionery, snacking, sweet treats or similar.
• Skilled at developing new retail listings in-line with company growth strategies.
• Astute problem solver with analytical skills to interpret sales performance, future market trends and an ability to challenge the norm.
• Category minded with the ability to use the commercial data to build compelling arguments, influence and change perceptions.
• Entrepreneurial flair – familiar with ambiguity and energised by the process of building a sustainable organisation from the ground up.
• Previous commercial success within an entrepreneurial food or drink environment is essential in this role. Branded Confectionery or Sweet Treats experience would be highly beneficial.

VALUES & TRAITS

• The successful candidate will be aligned to the mission – displaying an empathy for sustainability and protecting the environment.
• Start-up savvy, proactive, creative and persistent.
• Action orientated, bringing energy and drive to the immediate and wider team.
• Strong attention to detail and customer facing skills.
• Great team player with the ability to support, to lead, to care and to tell things as they are.
• A high energy, self-starter who naturally thrives in a culture of individual accountability and shared ownership.
• A demonstrable ability to inspire people – both internal and external.

LOCATION

The successful candidate can be based remotely in the UK. Regular visits to customers and manufacturing facilities come with the territory at this level.

THE DEAL

Base Salary Circa £70,000 + £5,000 Car Allowance + Annual Bonus + Pension Scheme + Bupa Healthcare Cover

We are also open to candidates who are looking for the flexibility of a reduced hours contract. e.g. 4 days per week.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply below or submit an up-to-date CV to mark.gouland@bluerice.co.uk

Be prepared for a two-stage selection process that allows you to demonstrate your skills, values and mission alignment! All shortlisted candidates will be sent samples of the product. Interviews to be run throughout October.