National Account Controller / Senior Commercial Manager

Jones Hunt Keelings; Wellingborough; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fresh produce company is seeking a dynamic individual to lead growth and development for their national accounts. Responsibilities include executing strategic sales plans, managing customer relationships, and driving overall profitability. The ideal candidate has experience in direct selling, negotiation, and a strong understanding of FMCG. Excellent leadership and communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Join us to make an impact and be a part of our inclusive culture.

Qualifications

• Track record of direct selling and negotiating, ideally within FMCG.
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills with strong values-based leadership.
• Results-driven and commercially focused.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the growth of the Keelings business within assigned national accounts.
• Develop relationships with group accounts to maximize profitability.
• Monitor customer performance against agreed KPIs.
• Collaborate with internal teams to coordinate product supply.

Skills

Direct selling

Negotiation

Leadership skills

Communication

Customer relationship management

Data insights

Job description

Purpose Of The Role

In this role you will lead the growth and development of the Keelings business within the assigned portfolio of national accounts delivering on volume, net sales, service levels and profitability targets in line with company objectives. Focused on the delivery of long‑term and sustainable growth. Act as a liaison between retail and wholesale / food service partners and relevant stakeholders, addressing any issues or concerns in a timely manner and avoiding compromising product residency and meeting customer demand.

Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities

• Development and execution of strategic sales plans to achieve revenue targets and develop relationships with group accounts to grow volume and maximize profitability.
• Deliver an efficient service to customers to achieve maximum sales growth, in line with strategic business plans. Responsible for management of product demand, availability and placement.
• Monitor customer performance against agreed KPI's. Deliver on strategic business plans including growth and turnover KPIs.
• Manage pricing tenders and agreements with customers throughout the year.
• Provide market insight and industry expertise, understanding competitors activities and advising on strategic plans for the company.
• Delivering the growth of the Keelings brand in your assigned accounts where applicable.
• Acquisition of new business.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including procurement, operations, logistics, technical and marketing, to coordinate product supply, pricing strategies and promotional activities to lead and develop our service levels.
• The role encompasses selling, negotiation, business management, relationship management, portfolio management, category management, engagement plans, supply chain and customer service monitoring, and indirect people management across the business in driving the growth of our business.
• Committed and demonstrate knowledge and expertise to all aspects of Food Safety across the supply chain.
• To liaise regularly with the Procurement team to understand and react to weekly changes in availability, quality and pricing of our fresh product from our own growers / suppliers.
• Create the conditions to continually optimise the motivation, engagement, development and of the team.
• To actively promote health & safety standards, engage in implementing health and safety protocols, and contribute to a risk‑free work environment for all, playing a crucial role in mitigating workplace risks and promoting the well‑being of all team members.
• Live our One Keelings Values and facilitate an inclusive environment where all can excel.

Role Specification and Technical Competencies

• Track record of direct selling and negotiating, ideally within FMCG & preferably in Fresh Produce.
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills with strong values‑based leadership.
• Results driven and commercially focused.
• Excellent communication, influencing, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to balance customer demands with the best interests of Keelings.
• Previous experience with data insights.
• Ability to build and manage relationships at all levels across the business and with our customers.
• The ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Behavioural Competencies

• Drive for Results
• Lead the Way
• Teamwork & Collaboration
• Be Responsible & Ensure Accountability

Values

• People Matter
• Teamwork
• Integrity
• Passion for Achievement