Head Of Sales

The Collective Network Limited; Greater London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job description

Head of Sales
Location: Hertfordshire
A well-established and growing food and beverage manufacturer is seeking an experienced Head of Sales to lead and drive the company's commercial strategy. This is a fantastic opportunity for a results-driven sales leader to develop and execute a robust sales plan, manage key national accounts, and lead a high-performing team to support the company's ambitious growth plans.

Key Responsibilities

1. Sales Strategy & Growth
   Develop and implement a sales strategy aligned with company-wide growth objectives both in the UK and internationally.
   Identify new business opportunities and drive lead generation to expand market share.
   Work closely with the Marketing Director to align sales strategies with brand positioning, product innovation, and market trends.
   Ensure pricing strategies, contract negotiations, and commercial terms are structured to maximise profitability.
   Develop and maintain multi-level customer relationships with key stakeholders in retail, food service, and contract manufacturing.
2. Team Leadership & Performance
   Provide sales leadership across the business, ensuring the sales team is structured, aligned, and motivated to achieve strategic growth objectives.
   Strengthen the new business development function while ensuring existing accounts remain well-managed.
   Implement sales KPIs and performance metrics to track success and identify areas for improvement.
3. Commercial & Operational Collaboration
   Work closely with NPD, technical, and operations teams to ensure product and service offerings align with customer needs.
   Collaborate with supply chain and finance teams to ensure customer demands are met efficiently and profitably.
   Support the business in identifying opportunities for automation, efficiency improvements, and strategic partnerships to enhance sales.
   Ensure a data-driven approach to sales forecasting, budgeting, and financial planning.
4. Customer & Market Development
   Lead the customer relationship with a selection of key national accounts.
   Develop and execute customer engagement plans to strengthen key account relationships and attract new clients.
   Keep abreast of market trends, competitor activity, and industry innovations, using insights to inform sales strategies.
   Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to enhance business reputation and visibility.

Key Skills & Experience Required

1. Proven track record in a senior sales leadership role within food or beverage manufacturing, FMCG, or food service.
2. Strong experience in developing and executing sales strategies, driving revenue growth, and winning new business.
3. Expertise in key account management, commercial negotiations, and pricing strategy.
4. Experience managing a diverse sales team, ensuring high performance and development.
5. Strong understanding of P&L management, forecasting, and data-driven decision-making.
6. Ability to influence at board level and collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and finance teams.
7. Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and project management skills.

What's in it for you?

1. Opportunity to shape the commercial strategy of a growing and ambitious business.
2. Leadership role with autonomy and line management of three direct reports, including a Sales Manager.
3. Competitive salary and benefits package.
4. Career development opportunities within a fast-growing organisation.

Benefits include:

1. 23 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays - increasing to 25 days (3 years' service), 28 days (5 years' service), and 30 days (10 years' service).
2. Free parking.
3. Government pension scheme.
4. Death in Service, including access to GP24.
5. Enhanced Maternity/Paternity/Adoption leave.
6. PerkBox, a discount scheme with hundreds of high street brands.

If you are a strategic sales leader looking for an exciting opportunity to make an impact in a growing business, we'd love to hear from you.