National Dealer Business Development Manager in Bedford

Carpigiani UK is a direct trading subsidiary of Carpigiani Ali Spa, the undisputed world leader in the manufacture of gelato & ice cream and frozen beverage equipment. CUK has a broad client base across many sectors, nationwide (QSR, Leisure, Casual Dining, Fine Dining, Retail etc.). We are a close-knit UK team of circa 40 directly employed staff where your contribution is valued, though our market presence is that of a leading internationally respected brand.

In January 2021, Carpigiani took on the UK distribution of ice makers from fellow Ali Group company Ice-O-Matic. This product has an established network of dealers across the UK, with many having sold Ice-O-Matic for years. Building from this, in 2022, we introduced the increasingly popular Carpigiani “plug and play” dealer range, specifically developed for distribution partners. More recently, we have expanded our offering further with the addition of Simag ice machines and Friulinox blast chilling and combined refrigeration systems, strengthening our position across the foodservice distribution landscape.

Carpigiani UK is in an exciting phase of growth, continuing to expand its premium product portfolio while developing enhanced partnership solutions for dealers and distributors across the UK foodservice market.

The Role

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Business Development Manager to nurture and grow the existing dealer network for distributor-led brands across the UK, with new and existing dealers. Sales will focus primarily on direct engagement with dealers, offering the opportunity to develop and strengthen relationships across the UK and further expand this important sales channel.

Key Responsibilities

• Sales and promotion of the full range of dealer-led products to a network of distribution partners.
• Securing new dealer accounts across the UK foodservice, consultant, design & refrigeration sectors.
• Building and maintaining strong professional relationships with existing dealer clients.
• Growing business through proactive and effective sales activity, including regular dealer visits and increased product awareness.
• Taking a ‘sleeves up’ approach to helping build and develop a growing product range, alongside Carpigiani's existing portfolio.
• Providing regular communication, sales reporting and pipeline reviews with the line manager.
• Supporting engagement with end users to help develop opportunities for national accounts.

The Person

• Proven sales success from a field sales environment.
• At least 5 years sales experience managing dealer relationships in the foodservice sector.
• Results-driven with a positive ‘can do’ attitude.
• Comfortable hunting for new business while also nurturing and growing existing accounts.
• Strong negotiation skills, with experience engaging at all levels of seniority.
• Confident, self-sufficient, and comfortable using CRM systems and sales tools.
• Personable, passionate, hard-working and ambitious.
• Flexible and willing to travel and stay away from home as and when necessary (exhibitions, trade shows, etc).
• Knowledge of the competitor landscape would be an advantage.

The Benefits

• Competitive salary & commission.
• Company vehicle (BMW i4 M Sport with substantial contribution to home charger installation), phone, laptop & credit card for company expenses.
• Employee recognition and rewards scheme.
• Comprehensive training to get you up to speed with our specialised equipment.
• The chance to build a long-term career within a growing company.
• A dynamic and supportive team environment.