Senior Business Development Manager – Food & Drink Sector

The People Co; Hertford; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in Hertford seeks a Senior Business Development Manager to drive client acquisition in the food and drink sector. This role offers a competitive salary of up to £65,000, allows for hybrid work, and emphasizes a strategic approach to sales. Ideal candidates will have 5+ years in high-value sales and a strong network within the industry.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Car allowance

Comprehensive benefits package

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience in a high-value sales role.
• 3+ years’ experience in B2B sales, ideally within FMCG and retail.
• Ability to engage with senior stakeholders and decision-makers.

Responsibilities

• Acquire and develop new client relationships.
• Own the full sales cycle from prospecting to closing deals.
• Engage with senior stakeholders to understand their challenges.

Skills

Consultative sales approach

Strong networking skills

Commercial acumen

Resilience

Job description

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Senior Business Development Manager – Food & Drink Sector, Hertford

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Client:

The People Co

Location:

Hertford, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

b4339473d465

Job Views:

6

Posted:

12.08.2025

Expiry Date:

26.09.2025

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Job Description:

Are you passionate about the food and drink industry? Do you thrive in a client-facing, business development role where you engage with senior commercial leaders? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

The Role.

We are seeking a dynamic and ambitiousSenior Business Development Managerto drive client acquisition and expand an already established customer base. Working for an industry-renowned organisation, you will be at the forefront of commercial engagement within the food manufacturing and retail sectors, developing strategic relationships and identifying growth opportunities.

This is a high-autonomy role that requires a strategic, consultative approach to sales, a deep understanding of the FMCG and retail landscape, and the ability to engage with C-suite decision-makers. Your mission will be to generate new business while ensuring sustainable, long-term client partnerships.

Key Responsibilities.

• Proactively acquire and develop new client relationships within the food and drink manufacturing and retail sectors.
• Own the full sales cycle from prospecting to closing deals.
• Build and maintain a robust sales pipeline, identifying opportunities for business expansion.
• Engage with senior commercial stakeholders to understand their challenges and offer tailored solutions.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams to ensure seamless client onboarding and long-term success.
• Represent the organisation at key industry events and networking opportunities.

People Profile.

• 5+ years’ experiencein a high-value sales role, with a proven track record of exceeding targets.
• At least 3+ years’ experiencein B2B sales, ideally within the FMCG and retail sectors.
• A strong, consultative approach to sales, with the ability to engage with senior stakeholders.
• Excellent networking skills and an existing network within the industry is highly desirable.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and resilient, with a passion for business development.
• Strong commercial acumen and a deep understanding of industry challenges and opportunities.
• Willingness to travel within the UK and internationally as required.

What’s in It for You?

• Competitive salary up to£65,000 + Car Allowance + Benefits Package.
• Work with a market-leading organisation in the food and drink industry.
• Hybrid working model offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• A supportive and high-performance culture where you can make a real impact.
• Career progression opportunities within a growing and dynamic business.

If you are a driven sales professional with a passion for the food and drink industry, this is your chance to take your career to the next level. Apply today and be part of an organisation that is shaping the future of the sector!

We regret we cannot offer visa sponsorship and can only consider candidates who hold the right to work in the UK.