Technical Sales Manager - Pharmaceutical in London

Salary: £50-75k+ (base, depending on experience), plus performance-based bonus + share options (reward long-term performance and contribution to business growth).

Location: Leeds or London (Hybrid), Travel across UK & EMEA required.

Founded in 2018, Anstar is a rapidly growing speciality chemicals distributor headquartered in Leeds, UK. We act as a commercial and technical bridge between Eastern manufacturers and global markets. We are market leaders in UV-curing materials (particularly photoinitiators) and are now expanding into nutraceutical, food, and speciality ingredients, leveraging our supply chain strength and technical expertise. We are committed to sustainable business practices, including the supply of bio-sourced raw materials, aiming for long-term success while minimising environmental impact.

All our sales personnel possess a strong technical (Chemistry) background, enabling us to offer full-breadth service. We embrace a 'Technology First' approach, utilising cutting-edge software and automation to drive efficiency and scalable growth.

We have established a strong supplier of speciality materials used across food, animal feed, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. These chemicals include Propyl Gallate, Tannic acid, Gallic acid and other antioxidants, supplements and additives.

To steer and expand this exciting new venture, we seek an accomplished and ambitious individual with a demonstrated aptitude for business development, strong chemistry background, sharp commercial acumen and adept critical thinking abilities. You will be responsible for driving a new business unit and continuing our company’s upward trajectory.

• Drive business development and growth of the new speciality raw materials business unit.
• Develop and nurture a sales team as required and provide effective leadership, setting clear goals, providing guidance and support, and fostering a high-performance culture.
• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities, cultivate relationships with potential clients, and negotiate contracts to secure new accounts in the UK and EU.
• Conduct market research and analysis to identify potential growth areas, customer demands, and emerging opportunities.
• Track sales performance, analyse key metrics, and prepare regular reports on sales activities and revenue forecasts.
• Oversee the financial performance (P&L) of the business unit, monitor expenses, manage budgets, and optimise profitability in line with the company's financial objectives.
• Act as a brand ambassador at industry events, trade shows, and conferences, representing the company professionally, networking with key stakeholders, and promoting the company's products and services.
• Continuously evaluate and improve sales processes, tools, and methodologies to enhance efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction.

Experience in food/nutraceutical/ingredient markets (minimum 3+ years).

Proven experience (3-5+ years) in B2B technical sales, with a proven track record and technical background in (speciality) chemical industries.

Ability to conduct market analysis and contribute to sales planning.

You are able to work independently under remote management (e.g., WFH).

Experience using CRM and ERP software.

Highly proficient with standard business technology (laptops, phones) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Teams).

Full driving licence and willingness to travel across UK and EMEA when required.

Training in Management (online/in-person courses, MBAs etc.).

PhD in Chemistry.

The interview process will consist of an initial phone call, followed by 2-3 interview rounds.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.