Head Of Sales/Business Development Department

The Thrive Group; Blackburn; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in nicotine products is looking for a Head of Department to lead the Sales & Business Development team in Blackburn. The ideal candidate will exhibit strong leadership skills and commercial acumen while ensuring compliance in a dynamic environment. This role offers a competitive salary of £35,000-£42,000 plus uncapped bonuses, and the chance to grow within a fast-paced organization.

Benefits

Calm and family-like environment

Breakout areas with games

Lunches and team outings

Awards for performance

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in FMCG, vape, alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, or food.
• Strong commercial or operational track record with evidence of delivering results.
• Data-driven mindset with strong analytical and decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute departmental strategy aligned with company objectives.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and legislation.
• Develop channel strategies for B2B distribution and retail accounts.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers and key accounts.

Skills

Leadership experience

Commercial acumen

Excellent communication skills

Analytical skills

Job description

Overview

Thrive Group are looking for a Head of a Sales / Business Development Department on behalf of our client based in Blackburn (BB1) on a permanent basis.

About the company:

A fast-growing company in the next-generation nicotine products sector, supplying both retail and wholesale markets across the UK and internationally. With a focus on product innovation, compliance, and consumer safety, they are seeking a strategic and results-driven Head of Department to lead and help drive growth in a highly regulated, competitive market.

Join a fast-growing business during an exciting phase of expansion, where you'll enjoy a unique, supportive working environment and real opportunities to grow. This is your chance to be part of a company that's scaling rapidly - offering stability, progression, and a workplace culture that truly stands out.

Additional Perks:

• They offer a calm, relax and family feel environment created by the CEO and General Manager.
• Break out areas - pool tables, ping pong tables, hairdressers and barbers!
• Internal pool competitions - as you can image in a sales environment - everyone is very competitive!
• Lunches
• Awards
• Trips
• The list is endless!

Role Overview

As Head of Department, you will take ownership of the strategy, performance, and leadership of your division. You'll combine commercial acumen with a strong understanding of industry trends, regulatory requirements, and consumer behaviour, ensuring that your team delivers measurable impact aligned with the company's goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Strategy
  • Define and execute departmental strategy aligned with company objectives.
  • Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team.
  • Own departmental budgets, KPIs, and reporting to the senior leadership team.
• Industry & Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with MHRA, TRPR, and TPD regulations across all activities.
  • Stay ahead of changes in legislation, public health policy, and trading standards.
  • Work closely with quality assurance and legal teams to mitigate risk.
• Commercial Impact
  • Sales: Develop channel strategies for B2B distribution, retail accounts, and direct-to-consumer.
  • Marketing: Drive brand visibility while adhering to advertising restrictions in the vape sector.
  • Operations: Optimise supply chain, inventory, and logistics to meet customer demand.
• Stakeholder Management
  • Build strong relationships with suppliers, distributors, and key accounts.
  • Represent the business at industry forums, trade shows, and regulatory bodies.

Candidate Profile

• Proven leadership experience in FMCG, vape, alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, food.
• Strong commercial or operational track record, with evidence of delivering results.
• Excellent communicator and relationship builder across all levels.
• Data-driven mindset with strong analytical and decision-making skills.
• Passion for innovation and consumer-focused product development.

Salary

£35,000-£42,000 DOE but are client is willing to pay more for the right candidate

Bonus - uncapped earnings, excellent and achievable bonus structure

Office Hours

Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm

Our client is looking for people within the business that want to develop with them and grow!

They are an excellent employer treating everyone the same from shop floor upwards!

Are you their next Head of Department gem?

Sales

Manager

Head of Department

Business Development

INDSKEL