Area Sales Executive in Manchester

Head Hunted Recruitment are working exclusively with an award winning and rapidly expanding business who are one of the largest in their sector and boasting a very strong market presence. Due to continuing expansion, we are looking to recruit an Area Sales Representative. This is a superb opportunity for a driven individual to join one of the largest companies in the pet industry.

The Area Sales Representative will support the growth in line with the business strategy by developing a newly established sales area. The role focuses on acquiring new customers, opening and developing accounts, reactivating existing accounts with no spend, and driving growth within existing key accounts to support revenue and profit targets. This is a home-based, field-focused role with an expectation to visit prospects and customers 4–5 days per week.

Previous experience within the pet, pet products or agricultural sales background would be a distinct advantage however product training will be given. You will be ideally located in Yorkshire or Manchester with travel across assigned area Yorkshire, Lancashire, Manchester, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Durham, Cumbria.

• Actively identify, contact, and engage prospective customers to increase client base and generate profitable new business.
• Develop and grow existing accounts, including reactivating dormant accounts within your area.
• Collaborate closely with the Business Development Director, the Sales Manager and the wider sales team to support delivery of sales strategy.
• Promote the company's wholesale products and services, elevating company profile within the region.
• Identify sales opportunities and inform customers of promotions and new product lines.
• Maintain strong customer relationships, enhancing buying experience through critical and creative thinking.
• Recommend suitable alternative products when required (e.g., out-of-stock situations).
• Manage and maintain CRM records, ensuring accurate customer interaction logs and account data.
• Handle customer orders by phone or email, ensuring accuracy in pricing, discounts, and product codes.
• Ensure orders are processed correctly and delivered on time, maintaining excellent customer satisfaction.
• Prepare reports and provide administrative support to ensure an efficient sales process.
• Conduct price negotiations, in conjunction with the Commercial Team where appropriate to secure and grow business.
• Maintain expert product knowledge and stay updated on industry trends, including liaising with manufacturers’ representatives.
• Attend and contribute to sales meetings at Head Office.
• Monitor sales project activities, track progress, and drive actions to achieve targets.
• Attend trade shows and represent the company professionally.

• Would ideally suit someone who has experience within the pet product, animal sector.
• 6-12 months’ experience in a similar sales role (pet industry experience highly desirable).
• Strong knowledge of the pet industry and/or specific pet/animal categories.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, presentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organisational and time-management abilities.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Proficient IT skills, including Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and CRM software.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Ability to balance persuasion with professionalism.

This vacancy comes at a time which sees great growth within this area of the business. If you have the experience and feel you could step into this exciting opportunity then please apply immediately. We are offering a competitive salary of circa £35K per annum, plus excellent company benefits including commission, company car or car allowance and staff discount.