Overview
In this role you lead AkzoNobel’s largest decorative customer, Kingfisher, shaping the commercial strategy and driving profitable growth across the UK and Europe. You will manage a major P&L, build senior level partnerships, and guide an account team to industry-leading performance. The position sits on the Sales Leadership Team, influencing wider retail strategy and cross-functional collaboration. This is a high-impact opportunity to steer a strategic customer partnership and deliver measurable business results.
Pay / Benefits
- Competitive salary plus market leading benefits package
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the Kingfisher account with direct P&L ownership and influence across Europe
- Define and deliver the strategic direction for the Kingfisher account to drive sustainable growth and profitability
- Build and maintain senior level relationships across the customer organization in the UK and internationally
- Lead and develop the account team to ensure best-in-class account management and performance
- Negotiate complex commercial agreements including trading terms, pricing, promotions, and category initiatives
- Drive cross-functional collaboration with internal teams (Sales, Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain)
- Deliver continuous improvement across business processes to unlock efficiencies and cost savings
- Use data and insight to identify growth opportunities and improve business performance
- Contribute to wider commercial strategy as a key member of the Sales Leadership Team
Key requirements
- Proven track record of delivering sustained growth with major retail or national account customers
- Extensive experience in account leadership and P&L ownership at a significant scale
- Strong commercial acumen with a deep understanding of maximizing profitable growth
- Experience leading cross-functional and international teams
- Exceptional communication, influencing, and negotiation skills at senior levels
- Ability to manage complex customer relationships in dynamic market conditions
- Degree level education or equivalent experience
- Strategic thinker
- Confident leader who inspires and develops high performing teams
- Skilled relationship builder capable of influencing at all levels
- P&L ownership
- Data-driven growth identification and performance improvement
- Cross-functional and international team leadership
Kingfisher Customer Business Lead in Slough employer: Akzo Nobel
At AkzoNobel, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Felling where innovation meets tradition. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package, including competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and flexible working options that promote a healthy work-life balance. Join us to be part of a diverse team dedicated to driving digital transformation in manufacturing while enjoying opportunities for personal and professional development.
