At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage key customer accounts in Soil Health, driving retention and growth.
- Company: Cawood, the UK's largest independent analytical lab for land-based industries.
- Benefits: Hybrid work, career development, and a values-led culture.
- Other info: Join a growing team with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in key account management and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Cawood is the largest independent provider of analytical laboratory testing and sampling services for the land-based industries in the UK. With 15 sites around the country specialising in different types of analysis, we are always looking for skilled and talented individuals to join our teams. This is an exciting time to join Cawood. The business is growing and there are plenty of opportunities for people who want to work hard, have fun and be part of our success.
We’re looking for an experienced Key Account Manager to take ownership of our most important customer relationships within our Soil Health segment, spanning our NRM and IAS businesses. This role is focused on retention, price realisation, and long‑term account growth, delivered through strategic account management, proactive opportunity identification, and close cross‑functional collaboration. You’ll act as a trusted partner to key customers, ensuring they are not just satisfied, but genuinely over‑served.
Our Soil Health teams deliver laboratory services across soil, crop, and environmental analysis, helping customers make informed decisions that improve productivity, sustainability, and environmental outcomes. Backed by deep technical expertise, robust systems, and a values‑led culture, we support customers operating at the heart of sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
As a Key Account Manager, you’ll have full responsibility for a defined portfolio of A‑grade customer accounts, owning retention, growth, and commercial performance. You’ll build deep, multi‑level relationships, identify and convert opportunities, and work closely with Business Development, Sales Support, Operations, and Product teams to deliver long‑term value.
What you’ll be responsible for:
- Owning and growing a portfolio of strategic customer accounts
- Building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders across complex organisations
- Developing and executing robust account plans focused on retention and growth
- Identifying and converting cross‑sell, upsell, price and new opportunity growth
- Leading contract renewals and supporting pricing and commercial discussions
- Using CRM/LIMS and data to manage pipeline, performance, risk, and opportunity
- Collaborating cross‑functionally to deliver outstanding customer outcomes
About you:
You’re a commercially minded Key Account Manager who thrives on long‑term customer partnerships and delivering sustainable growth. You’ll bring:
- Proven key account experience managing and growing complex B2B accounts
- Strong background in contract negotiation, pricing, and commercial growth
- Exceptional relationship‑building skills with senior stakeholders
- A data‑driven mindset, comfortable using metrics, CRM and structured account plans
- The ability to manage a large portfolio (c. 40–60 accounts) with discipline and resilience
- A collaborative approach, working seamlessly across sales, ops and technical teams
Experience in agriculture, animal health, environmental or technical services is highly desirable.
Values matter:
Alignment with our EBI Core Values is non‑negotiable:
- People Matter
- Kaizen Mindset
- Win and Grow with Customers
- Long‑Term Approach
We’re looking for someone with high ownership, a continuous improvement mindset, and the resilience to thrive in a fast‑moving, complex environment.
Why join us?
- Purpose‑driven work supporting sustainable agriculture and the environment
- Ownership of strategic, high‑impact customer relationships
- Strong technical expertise and systems to support your success
- Career development opportunities across a growing, global organisation
- A collaborative, values‑led culture that invests in its people
Hybrid role – you’ll need to be based within 1.5 hours of Bracknell, with occasional travel to Ireland. If you’re motivated by long‑term partnerships, commercial ownership, and work that genuinely matters, we’d love to hear from you.
Key Account Manager - Soil Health in Bracknell employer: Cawood
Cawood is an exceptional employer that prioritises operational excellence and employee development at our Marchwood facility. We foster a collaborative work culture where innovation thrives, offering extensive growth opportunities for our team members while ensuring compliance with industry standards. Join us to be part of a dynamic environment that values your expertise and encourages meaningful contributions to our analytical testing services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Key Account Manager - Soil Health in Bracknell
✨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 Cawood 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 Key Account Manager - Soil Health in Bracknell
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 Cawood does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cawood
✨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 Cawood 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 Cawood.
✨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 Cawood.
