At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and grow key accounts in the foodservice sector across the South of England.
- Company: Join one of the UK's fastest-growing frozen food businesses with a strong industry reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Field-based role with a mix of customer visits and remote work.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting team driving sales and innovation in the food industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in field sales or account management within food or drink sectors.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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This range is provided by FMCG Selection. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
Direct message the job poster from FMCG Selection
A well-established and highly respected distributor of premium food ingredients, this business partners with an extensive portfolio of prestigious brands. Supplying specialist products to foodservice wholesalers, distributors and artisan producers, they are recognised for their commitment to quality, service and long-term partnerships.
From humble beginnings supplying sugar and confectionery to small businesses, the company has grown over nearly 25 years into one of the UK’s leading independent distributors of premium ingredients. Today, their broad range includes bakery, culinary and ice cream ingredients, flavourings, purées, inclusions and decorations – all sourced from carefully selected, best-in-class suppliers.
With a strong reputation for reliability, service and product expertise, the business has become a trusted partner to chefs, manufacturers and specialist producers across the UK. Their continued growth is fuelled by a commitment to quality, innovation and close collaboration with their customers. As they expand their presence and capabilities, they are now seeking a Business Development Manager to help drive further growth across South East England.
The Role
Following significant and sustained growth, this is an exciting opportunity for a commercially savvy, food-passionate Key Account Manager to help accelerate regional sales and deepen customer partnerships across the South East.
Reporting to the Sales Controller, you will manage a portfolio of valued customers while demonstrating a flair for new business development. Key customer channels include foodservice wholesalers, distributors, and specialist end users such as Cakers, Chocolatiers and Gelato manufacturers.
You will balance strategic account development with proactive prospecting, ensuring the business remains the partner of choice for customers seeking premium, innovative ingredients and outstanding service.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop robust and creative initiatives that build on existing customer relationships while driving sales, profit and volume growth
- Proactively target and acquire new customers across South East England, establishing long-term business partnerships
- Identify and introduce new product opportunities, working collaboratively with internal teams to bring ideas to market
- Monitor competitor activity, market trends and customer insights to maintain a compelling and differentiated proposition
- Embrace change with a positive, solutions-focused mindset, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the sales strategy
Candidate Requirements
- Currently working in a Business Development or Account Management role within food or ingredients
- Experience managing a range of foodservice customers, including wholesalers and end users
- Strong commercial acumen with a strategic and methodical approach
- A genuine passion for food – ideally with experience as a chef or within premium food ingredients
- A self-starter who thrives in a privately owned, growing business and enjoys autonomy
- Happy to spend significant time on the road visiting customers across the region
- Based within South East England
- Company bonus
- Contributory pension scheme
- 25 days & bank holidays
- Life insurance and healthcare
- Home-based contract
Contact
If you have the experience outlined above and are excited by the opportunity to shape growth for a premium ingredients business, please apply below or contact Aidan at FMCG Selection on 01943 667280 or via aidan@fmcgselection.co.uk.
Please note all applications will be forwarded to FMCG Selection.
Seniority level
- Associate
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Sales and Business Development
Industries
- Food and Beverage Manufacturing
- Food and Beverage Services
- Wholesale
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Key Account Manager - Foodservice employer: FMCG Selection
FMCG Selection is an exceptional employer for those looking to transition from the kitchen to a commercial role in the vibrant hospitality sector. With a competitive salary of up to £34,000, a company car, and 33 days of holiday, employees enjoy a supportive work culture that values passion for food and fosters professional growth through meaningful relationships with clients across Oxford, Cambridge, and North London. This unique opportunity allows you to leverage your culinary expertise while working with a leading supplier of premium desserts, making it a rewarding career choice for food enthusiasts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Key Account Manager - Foodservice
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like Key Account Manager - Foodservice at FMCG Selection, presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including FMCG Selection. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Key Account Manager - Foodservice. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Key Account Manager - Foodservice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for FMCG Selection:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for FMCG Selection. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at FMCG Selection
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show FMCG Selection that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show FMCG Selection that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with FMCG Selection’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.
