At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage key customer accounts and drive profitable growth in the fresh produce sector.
- Company: Leading UK fresh produce importer with a strong reputation for quality and innovation.
- Benefits: Join a passionate team, influence strategy, and enjoy career development opportunities.
- Other info: Office-based in Kent with some travel required.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while building long-term relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial management within fresh produce and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Commercial Manager to join a leading UK fresh produce importer.
This is a key commercial role within a well-established business that supplies many of the UK’s leading retailers, foodservice operators, processors and wholesale customers.
Working alongside the senior leadership team, you will be responsible for managing and developing key customer relationships, driving profitable category growth, and ensuring exceptional service levels across your accounts.
This role offers the opportunity to influence commercial strategy while working closely with procurement, supply chain, technical and operations teams.
If you are commercially driven, thrive in a fast-paced fresh produce environment and enjoy building long-term customer relationships, this could be the ideal next step in your career.
About the Business
Our client is a highly respected importer and supplier within the UK fresh produce industry, with an outstanding reputation for quality, service and innovation.
The business has experienced significant growth since its formation and has built long-standing relationships with both UK retailers and international growers.
With a strong focus on food safety, sustainability and continuous improvement, the company is recognised as one of the industry’s leading suppliers and continues to invest in its people and future growth.
The Role
Reporting into the senior commercial team, you will take ownership of key retail customer relationships while developing commercially beneficial partnerships throughout the supply chain.
The successful candidate will
- Manage and develop key customer accounts within the fresh produce sector.
- Build strong commercial relationships with customers, growers and suppliers.
- Deliver market-leading category management and commercial insight.
- Work collaboratively across procurement, supply chain, technical and operations teams.
- Produce accurate weekly sales forecasts and longer-term volume planning.
- Monitor market trends, consumer behaviour and competitor activity.
- Identify opportunities to improve margins, product quality and supply chain efficiencies.
- Ensure outstanding customer service levels are consistently achieved.
- Support profitable business growth across existing and new opportunities.
- Prepare and present sales, pricing, margin and volume reports when required.
- Contribute towards the development and promotion of product categories.
- Travel within the UK and internationally as required.
About You
We are looking for an experienced commercial professional with a strong background in the Fresh Produce industry.
You will ideally have
- Previous commercial or account management experience within Fresh Produce.
- Strong retail customer management experience.
- Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills.
- Proven ability to manage customer expectations while delivering profitable growth.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret commercial data.
- Excellent forecasting, planning and organisational skills.
- Confidence working cross-functionally with multiple departments.
- A proactive approach with excellent problem-solving abilities.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- The ability to work effectively within a fast-paced commercial environment.
Why Apply?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join an ambitious and forward-thinking business at an exciting stage of its growth.
You will become part of a passionate commercial team where your ideas, commercial expertise and relationship-building skills will have a genuine impact on the future success of the business.
If you are looking for a role where you can make a real difference while developing your career within one of the UK’s leading fresh produce businesses, we would love to hear from you.
- Additional Information
- Office-based role in Kent.
- Own transport is essential due to the office location.
- Some UK and international travel will be required
Commercial Manager (Fruit) in Folkestone employer: Fmk consulting
As a leading employer in the health and safety sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Our commitment to continuous development ensures that our Health and Safety Partners are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills, while our competitive salary and benefits package reflects our appreciation for their expertise. Located in a vibrant area, we offer unique opportunities to engage with diverse teams and make a meaningful impact in complex environments.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager (Fruit) in Folkestone
✨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 Fmk consulting 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 (Fruit) in Folkestone
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 Fmk consulting does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fmk consulting
✨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 Fmk consulting 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 Fmk consulting.
✨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 Fmk consulting.
