Business Development Manager in Bristol

Business Development Manager – Bristol (FMCG Industry)

Location: Bristol

Job Type: Full-time, Monday–Friday

Salary: Up to £40,000 + performance-related bonuses

Benefits: Company car, product allowance, industry training, long-term career progression

About the Company

Our client is a well-established, award-winning drinks producer with a strong regional presence and a commitment to natural, high-quality production. Operating from a heritage site and combining traditional methods with contemporary innovation, they continue to grow rapidly across the Southwest. This role offers an excellent opportunity to join a respected, expanding business within the drinks sector.

Role Summary

We are seeking a driven and dynamic Field Business Development Manager to manage and develop the Bristol, North Devon, and wider Southwest territory.

This is a predominantly field-based role focused on visiting pubs, bars, restaurants, independent retailers, wholesalers, and other hospitality venues. You will nurture existing accounts, win new business, deliver exceptional brand representation, and support promotional activities and events.

Daily responsibilities include meeting customers, presenting products, running tastings, negotiating visibility and pricing, updating CRM systems, and working closely with internal teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, retain, and grow existing on-trade, off-trade, and wholesale accounts
• Identify, approach, and convert new business opportunities across the licensed trade
• Build strong, long-term customer relationships through regular face-to-face visits
• Deliver product tastings, training sessions, and brand education
• Negotiate listings, pricing, promotions, and visibility
• Monitor sales performance, territory activity, and competitor trends
• Support brand campaigns, trade shows, events, and occasional evening promotions
• Maintain accurate CRM and administrative records
• Represent the brand with professionalism, enthusiasm, and integrity

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in field sales, account management, or business development (drinks industry or FMCG preferred)
• Strong understanding of the on-trade sector and hospitality environment
• Passion for high-quality food and drink
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills
• Highly organised, self-motivated, and able to manage your own schedule
• Target-driven and resilient in a fast-paced environment
• Comfortable with regular travel across the South West (full UK driving licence required)

Additional Benefits

• Competitive base salary with annual performance bonus
• Company car
• Training and development within the drinks industry
• Clear opportunities for long-term career progression

How to Apply

If you’re interested in this opportunity, please submit your CV or contact the Account Manager directly at sarah@ark-recruitment.com for a confidential discussion. Early applications are encouraged as interviews will be arranged on a rolling basis.