UK Sales Manager - Grocery

TalentPool; Watford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A European food business is seeking an experienced individual to lead their UK grocery operations from the ground up. This role requires a successful track record in FMCG sales with major UK grocers and the ability to develop strong relationships with key partners like Tesco and Sainsbury's. The ideal candidate should thrive in a start-up environment and have a blend of big business training and challenger mindset. Competitive compensation is available, along with the opportunity to build a business from the start.

Qualifications

• 5-15 years FMCG grocery sales experience.
• Successful track record with UK grocers like ASDA, Morrisons, Tesco.
• FMCG food/drinks background is essential.

Responsibilities

• Win and develop relationships with key UK grocery retailers.
• Shape UK sales strategy and account plans.
• Own end-to-end account management including negotiations.

Skills

FMCG grocery sales experience

Relationship building with UK grocers

Independent operations in start-up environment

Job description

A rare opportunity to join a + £500m family-owned European food business with many years of heritage as they launch their established European/Global brand into the UK market. The business employs over 2000 people globally, with 8 production sites across Europe and the US. The UK will be set up as a new standalone entity, currently in start-up phase with a small founding team. Reporting into the UK General Manager, with senior leadership support from the wider group, this role offers full autonomy to build the UK grocery business from the ground up. There is already some UK customer exposure via a distributor with an official UK launch planned for early next year. Role focus:

• Win and develop relationships with Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, ASDA, and Co-op
• Shape UK sales strategy, forecasting, and account plans
• Own end-to-end account management: presentations, negotiations, JBPs, and execution
• Work cross-functionally with supply chain, marketing, and global teams
  5-15 years FMCG grocery sales experience
• Must have a successful track record with UK grocers inc ASDA, Morrisons, Tesco, JS, Co-Op, and Aldi
• FMCG food/drinks background is essential
• Comfortable operating independently in a start-up environment
• Background combining big business training with a challenger mindset
• Strong UK grocery buyer exposure essential