Sales & Business Development Manager in Oxford

Sales & Business Development Manager in Oxford

Oxford Full-Time 40000 £ / year No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive sales growth and build strong customer relationships in the equestrian sector.
  • Company: Join Wood & Slumber, a leading eco-friendly equine bedding brand.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, company car, generous holiday, and excellent training opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the equestrian community while enjoying a flexible work environment.
  • Qualifications: Proven sales experience, strong equestrian network, and excellent communication skills.
  • Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

This is a field-based role, with a Midlands base preferred to support national coverage.

About Wood & Slumber: Wood & Slumber is the premium equine bedding brand from Arbor Forest Products, one of the UK's largest independent timber importers and processors with over 70 years of experience in sustainable timber sourcing and production. Wood & Slumber shavings are dust-extracted, kiln-dried, highly absorbent, eco-friendly premium wood shavings designed to provide superior comfort, cleanliness and respiratory wellbeing for horses. Our product is trusted across the equestrian community from private owners to professional yards, racecourses, and veterinary facilities and distributed nationally through a growing stockist network.

Role Overview: We are seeking an experienced and motivated Sales & Development Manager to represent Wood & Slumber. You will play a key role in developing and executing sales strategies that drive sustainable growth, strengthen customer relationships, and expand market presence. This is a field-based position ideal for someone with strong equestrian industry networks and excellent commercial acumen.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Achieve and exceed regional sales targets and objectives.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing customers across wholesalers, retailers, and end users.
  • Identify, qualify and convert new business opportunities and leads.
  • Keep customer data up to date for sales activity and marketing use.
  • Provide exceptional customer care, advice and support.
  • Work with the marketing team to ensure alignment of promotions and campaigns that grow brand awareness.
  • Maintain an in-depth knowledge of Wood & Slumber products and competitor offerings.
  • Manage key accounts and develop tailored solutions to meet client needs.
  • Respond promptly to sales enquiries and handle complaints in a professional manner.
  • Keep accurate sales activity records.
  • Represent the brand at trade shows, events and customer visits.

About You:

  • Proven field sales experience, ideally within the equestrian sector or related animal care/agricultural markets.
  • A strong network within the equestrian community is highly desirable.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Self-motivated, organised and able to work independently.
  • Flexible approach to working hours and travel across the region.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and a customer-focused mindset.
  • IT literate; proficient with Microsoft Office and CRM systems.
  • Full UK driving licence essential.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary, dependent on experience.
  • Company car.
  • 31 days holiday, inclusive of Statutory Bank Holidays.
  • Option to buy up to an additional 5 days annual leave per annum or sell up to 3 days annual leave per annum.
  • Length of service awards.
  • Cycle to work scheme.
  • Contributory pension scheme.
  • Company sick pay.
  • Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
  • Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 helpline, counselling sessions, legal, debt and life management advice line).
  • Opportunity to participate in a volunteering role for one working day per year fully paid by the Company.
  • Excellent training and development opportunities.

How to Apply: Please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability.

Sales & Business Development Manager in Oxford employer: Arbor Forest Products Limited

At Wood & Slumber, part of Arbor Forest Products, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values sustainability and employee growth. Our supportive work culture fosters strong relationships within the equestrian community, while our competitive benefits, including a company car, generous holiday allowance, and comprehensive training opportunities, ensure that our Sales & Business Development Manager can thrive both personally and professionally in a field-based role across the Midlands.
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Contact Detail:

Arbor Forest Products Limited Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Sales & Business Development Manager in Oxford

✨Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the equestrian community! Attend events, trade shows, and local meet-ups to build relationships. Remember, it’s all about who you know, so don’t be shy!

✨Show Off Your Knowledge

Make sure you know Wood & Slumber products inside out. When chatting with potential clients, share your insights and expertise. This will help you stand out and show that you’re the go-to person for their needs.

✨Follow Up Like a Boss

After meeting someone or sending a proposal, always follow up! A quick email or call can keep you top of mind and show that you’re genuinely interested in working together. It’s a simple way to keep the conversation going.

✨Apply Through Our Website

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our brand.

We think you need these skills to ace Sales & Business Development Manager in Oxford

Field Sales Experience
Commercial Acumen
Customer Relationship Management
Sales Strategy Development
Networking within the Equestrian Community
Communication Skills
Presentation Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
IT Literacy
Proficiency in Microsoft Office
Experience with CRM Systems
Organisational Skills
Flexibility in Working Hours
Customer Care

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Sales & Business Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in the equestrian sector and any relevant sales achievements. We want to see how you can bring value to Wood & Slumber!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the equestrian industry and how your skills align with our goals. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a bit of personality!

Showcase Your Network: If you've got a strong network within the equestrian community, shout about it! Mention any connections or relationships that could benefit Wood & Slumber. We’re all about building strong partnerships!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

How to prepare for a job interview at Arbor Forest Products Limited

✨Know Your Product Inside Out

Before the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of Wood & Slumber's products. Familiarise yourself with their features, benefits, and how they stand out in the equestrian market. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you answer questions confidently.

✨Leverage Your Network

Since this role requires strong connections within the equestrian community, think about how you can highlight your existing relationships during the interview. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've built and maintained these connections in your previous roles.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and customer care approach. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully handled challenges or complaints, showcasing your ability to maintain strong customer relationships.

✨Showcase Your Sales Strategy

Be prepared to discuss your sales strategies and how you plan to achieve and exceed targets. Think about how you would approach building new business opportunities and maintaining key accounts, and be ready to share your ideas on aligning with marketing efforts to boost brand awareness.

Sales & Business Development Manager in Oxford
Arbor Forest Products Limited
Location: Oxford

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