At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage suppliers, develop products, and drive commercial initiatives in the foodservice sector.
- Company: Join Sterling Supergroup, a supportive co-operative for independent foodservice businesses.
- Benefits: Earn up to £45,000 with a comprehensive benefits package and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative environment with travel opportunities to strengthen relationships.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role that values your expertise and creativity.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in foodservice, strong negotiation skills, and a knack for analysis.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 € per year.
Sterling Supergroup Ltd is seeking an experienced, commercially astute and highly organised Commercial Manager to join its Head Office team in Maldon. This is a broad, hands‑on role combining buying, supplier management, commercial analysis, product development and marketing coordination. Working at the heart of the business, you will play a key role in supporting and developing Sterling’s supplier base, driving value for members, and managing key commercial initiatives including promotions, pricing, own‑label development and sales analysis. This position would suit a commercially minded buyer or commercial manager with strong foodservice experience who enjoys variety, autonomy and building long‑term relationships.
About Sterling Supergroup: Sterling Supergroup Ltd is a not‑for‑profit, true members’ co‑operative, supporting 35 independent wholesale foodservice businesses across the UK and Ireland. All members are family‑owned and operated, and the group exists to deliver value, scale, and support through collaborative buying, own‑label ranges and supplier partnerships. Based at Head Office in Maldon, Essex, Sterling works closely with both members and suppliers to deliver competitive pricing, high‑quality products and strong commercial support across the foodservice sector.
Key Responsibilities
- Supplier & Buying Management: Meet, evaluate and onboard new suppliers in line with commercial strategy; Negotiate pricing, trading terms, promotional support and contracts; Manage and monitor supplier performance, ensuring service, quality and value standards are met; Attend monthly buying meetings, including discussions relating to own‑label contracts.
- Product Sourcing & Development: Source and introduce new products aligned with market trends, member needs and brand objectives; Lead the development, negotiation and ongoing management of Sterling’s Caterers Essentials own‑label range; Liaise closely with suppliers throughout product development and lifecycle; Conduct product sample testing and quality checks to ensure compliance and consistency.
- Commercial & Sales Analysis: Analyse historical sales data to identify trends, risks and growth opportunities; Support informed commercial decision‑making through accurate reporting and insight; Update pricing information on a weekly basis, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
- Promotions & Marketing Coordination: Plan, manage and execute promotional activity to drive volume and visibility; Coordinate with marketing and advertising partners to support promotions; Produce a weekly newsletter to keep members and stakeholders informed of promotions, product updates and key commercial messages.
- Relationship & Business Development: Visit member businesses and supplier partners to strengthen relationships; Act as a key commercial point of contact between the Group, suppliers and members; Identify new opportunities to add value for members through improved ranges, pricing or promotions.
About You
- Experience & Knowledge: Proven experience in a buyer or commercial role, ideally within foodservice or wholesale; Strong knowledge of the foodservice sector is essential; Experience working with suppliers, negotiating terms and managing product ranges.
- Skills & Attributes: Excellent negotiation and influencing skills; Strong analytical ability with keen attention to detail; Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities; Confident communicator, comfortable working with suppliers and members at all levels; Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
Salary & Benefits: Salary up to £45,000 per annum, dependent on experience; Benefits package in line with a permanent head office role; Opportunity to work within a supportive, not‑for‑profit co‑operative; Long‑term role with scope to influence product ranges and commercial strategy.
Additional Information: Travel: Monthly travel to members and suppliers will be required; Education: GCSE or equivalent (required); Experience: Minimum 4 years’ foodservice experience (required).
Commercial Manager - Foodservice in Maldon employer: Energy Jobline ZR
Sterling Supergroup Ltd offers an exceptional work environment for a Commercial Manager in Maldon, where you will be part of a supportive, not-for-profit co-operative dedicated to empowering independent wholesale foodservice businesses. With a focus on collaboration and long-term relationships, employees benefit from a culture that values autonomy, professional growth, and the opportunity to influence product ranges and commercial strategies. The competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package further enhance the appeal of this meaningful role within a dynamic team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager - Foodservice in Maldon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the foodservice industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Commercial Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching Sterling Supergroup and their suppliers. Understand their values and how they operate. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Commercial Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate terms and manage supplier relationships. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Sterling Supergroup family and ready to make an impact in the foodservice sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager - Foodservice in Maldon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your foodservice experience and any relevant achievements that show you're the perfect fit for the Commercial Manager role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about the foodservice industry and how your background aligns with our mission at Sterling Supergroup. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of commercial analysis, be sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles. We love numbers, so don’t shy away from showcasing your analytical prowess!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at Sterling Supergroup!
How to prepare for a job interview at Energy Jobline ZR
✨Know Your Foodservice Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the foodservice sector. Understand current trends, key players, and what makes a successful supplier relationship. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but are genuinely passionate about the industry.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've successfully handled. Whether it's pricing, contracts, or promotional support, be ready to discuss how you achieved favourable outcomes. This is crucial for a Commercial Manager role, so make it count!
✨Be Data Savvy
Since the role involves commercial and sales analysis, be prepared to talk about how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles. Bring along any relevant reports or insights you've generated to demonstrate your analytical skills.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you've developed long-term relationships with suppliers and members in the past. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've added value through collaboration. This will highlight your ability to thrive in a co-operative environment like Sterling Supergroup.
