At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive commercial strategy and close deals in the agricultural sector.
- Company: Join Black Bull Biochar, a pioneering company in climate tech innovation.
- Benefits: Health insurance, 25 days leave, remote work options, and impactful work.
- Other info: Fast-paced startup environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of regenerative agriculture while making a real environmental impact.
- Qualifications: Proven agricultural sales experience and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Black Bull Biochar (BBB) is a growing UK company scaling the use of biochar, a carbon rich material that improves soil health, livestock and crop resilience while removing carbon from the atmosphere. The company is in an expansion phase, growing its presence across Edinburgh, London and Manchester, and building a team to define the future of regenerative agriculture and carbon removal.
About the role
This is a commercial role for an experienced agricultural sales professional who can close commercial deals, build lasting B2B partnerships, and navigate the bedding and livestock supply chain. As Commercial Manager, you will own BBB's commercial and sales strategy and be the person who converts relationships into signed contracts. You will bring your own deep sector knowledge and established network. Your focus will be on structuring commercial proposals, negotiating contracts, and securing large scale supply agreements with agricultural, equestrian and poultry partners. This role suits someone who has lived and breathed the agricultural bedding or livestock supply sector, and understands the product, the customer and the commercial dynamics from the inside.
Key responsibilities
- Drive BBB's commercial pipeline across agriculture, poultry and livestock bedding sectors
- Negotiate and close B2B supply contracts with large scale agricultural partners, poultry producers and industry groups
- Develop and manage a portfolio of key accounts, ensuring long term partnerships and repeat commercial agreements
- Work with the leadership team to shape BBB's broader commercial structure as the team grows
- Build BBB's route to market for its bedding product, identifying target customers and structuring compelling commercial offerings
- Act as a credible commercial voice on product development, helping shape BBB's bedding offerings based on customer needs and market feedback
- Represent BBB at industry events, trade shows and sector bodies relevant to bedding and poultry markets
- Liaise with operations, marketing and production teams to ensure commercial commitments are deliverable as BBB scales its site capacity
What we are looking for
- Proven track record specifically in agricultural sales across animal bedding, poultry or related livestock supply sectors
- Confident commercial closer with experience in negotiating and executing B2B supply contracts and long term agreements
- Deep sector credibility with understanding of how bedding products are made, what customers need and how the supply chain works
- Strategic thinker able to develop a sales strategy, set priorities and build a commercial function, not just fill a pipeline
- Strong relationship builder comfortable working with large institutional partners, estates and agricultural businesses
- People leader with experience line managing or mentoring others, with the maturity to develop a growing commercial team
- UK driving licence and willingness to travel
- Marketing acumen who can work on BBB's GTM strategy for bedding and agricultural products, setting direction, targets and market priorities
- Experience in biomass processing, renewable energy or carbon removal markets is a bonus but not essential; what matters most is agricultural sector knowledge, commercial instinct and the ability to close
- Comfortable with ambiguity and fast changing priorities
What you will get from us
- A cross cutting hands on experience working in a purposeful, impact driven, fast paced start up at the frontier of climate tech innovation
- The chance to grow and shape an organisation in its early stages
- Health insurance including dental, optical and mental health cover
- 25 days annual leave a year, not including bank holidays and the ability to remote work permanently for two weeks a year, and the option to buy back up to five days of annual leave
- Building a greener future where your work removes carbon, restores soil health, decarbonises energy and creates a lasting positive impact for generations to come
At this time, BBB can only accept applicants who are based in the locations specified and have the right to work in the UK.
Commercial Manager - Agriculture in Manchester employer: Black Bull Biochar Ltd
Black Bull Biochar (BBB) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a tangible impact in the field of regenerative agriculture and carbon removal. With a focus on employee growth, BBB provides hands-on experience in a fast-paced start-up atmosphere, alongside comprehensive health benefits and generous annual leave policies. Join us in Edinburgh, London, or Manchester to be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to building a greener future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager - Agriculture in Manchester
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Black Bull Biochar Ltd often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager - Agriculture in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Black Bull Biochar Ltd does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Black Bull Biochar Ltd
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Black Bull Biochar Ltd will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Black Bull Biochar Ltd.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Black Bull Biochar Ltd.
