Business Development Manager - Grocery & Foodservice

FMCG Exec; Hove; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing startup is seeking a Sales Lead to drive growth in retail and foodservice sectors across the UK. This role involves developing sales strategies, building relationships, and representing the brand at industry events. Ideal candidates are passionate about sustainability and have proven experience in FMCG sales.

Benefits

Performance-based bonus

Hybrid working

Qualifications

• Proven experience pitching to retailers and securing listings in FMCG or food & drink.
• Strong negotiation skills and a commercially sharp mindset.

Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of growing sales across retail and B2B channels.
• Develop and execute a winning sales strategy.
• Build strong relationships with key decision-makers.

Skills

Negotiation

Relationship Building

Organisational Skills

Job description

A fast-growing, purpose-driven startup is looking for a commercially savvy retail and foodservice Sales Lead to drive growth across the UK. This is a unique opportunity for someone who’s passionate about sustainability, thrives in fast-paced environments, and wants to make a big impact from day one.

Rescuing surplus coffee and chocolate from going to waste, our client repackages and delivers high-quality, sustainable products at unbeatable value. With growing demand and a loyal customer base, they're on a mission to change the way people think about food waste—and they're just getting started.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take full ownership of growing sales across retail and B2B channels, particularly into supermarkets but also offices, cafés, and restaurants.
• Develop and execute a winning sales strategy that drives growth across wholesale and independent partners.
• Build strong relationships with key decision-makers across retail and distribution networks.
• Pitch, negotiate, and secure listings across multiple sectors, tailoring your approach to each partner’s needs.
• Represent the brand at trade shows and industry events.
• Work directly with the founders on pricing, margin, and commercial strategy to ensure sustainable growth.
• Help shape the future of the sales team, laying the foundation for future hires and scalable success.

What You’ll Bring:

• Proven experience pitching to retailers and securing listings in FMCG or food & drink.
• A commercially sharp, target-driven mindset with strong negotiation skills.
• Natural relationship-building ability and the confidence to influence across all levels.
• A proactive, hands-on attitude—ready to build from the ground up in a fast-paced startup.
• A genuine passion for sustainability, food waste, and doing business the right way.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to thrive in an agile environment.

Why Join?

• Performance-based bonus
• A meaningful role at a fast-growing, mission-led startup
• Hybrid working – based in Hove, just 500 metres from the sea

Salary: Up to £50,000 (dependent on experience)

Location: Hybrid/Field-based, South East England, UK

If you’re ready to lead the charge in growing a brand with purpose—and help shape the future of sustainable food—this is your chance. Apply now and be part of something wonderful and world-changing!