At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technical sales of chocolate machinery, guiding customers from enquiry to installation.
- Company: Home Chocolate Factory, the UK's top supplier for professional chocolatiers.
- Benefits: Join a supportive family business with a passion for chocolate and creativity.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and industry events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the chocolate industry while working with innovative machinery.
- Qualifications: Experience in technical sales, strong communication skills, and a love for chocolate.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
If you would like to know a bit more about this opportunity, or are considering applying, then please read the following job information.
ROLE OVERVIEW
We're looking for a knowledgeable, consultative, and driven Technical Sales Manager to lead the sale of our chocolate machinery and equipment range. From tempering machines and enrobers to moulding lines and large-scale production systems, you'll be the expert who helps chocolate makers find exactly the right equipment for their craft.
You'll guide customers through every step, understanding their needs, recommending the right machinery, demonstrating how it works, and supporting them from first enquiry through to installation and beyond. You'll work with everyone from independent artisans buying their first tempering machine to large-scale producers investing in full production lines.
This is a full-time, in-office role based at our London headquarters and superstore showroom, with occasional travel to customer sites, trade shows, and supplier visits.
ABOUT US
Home Chocolate Factory is the UK's leading supplier for professional chocolate makers, from independent artisans to large-scale producers. For over two decades, we've combined craft and technology to supply the finest ingredients, equipment, and expertise to the people who create chocolate magic.
We're modernising how we work, from our online store to how we connect with customers. Our team blends deep product knowledge with a love of great service, and we're looking for someone who shares that same spirit.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Own the technical sales process for our chocolate machinery range, from initial enquiry through to closing the sale and aftercare.
- Understand each customer's production needs, scale, and ambitions, then recommend the right equipment to match.
- Deliver confident, hands-on machinery demonstrations in our London showroom and, where needed, at customer sites.
- Answer detailed technical questions on machine specifications, capacity, installation requirements, maintenance, and compatibility.
- Prepare quotes, proposals, and specifications, and guide customers through pricing, lead times, and financing or warranty options.
- Support international customers with machinery enquiries, shipping logistics, voltage and compliance requirements, and technical queries.
- Build long-term relationships with customers, becoming their trusted advisor for current and future equipment needs.
- Liaise with warehouse, purchasing, suppliers, and engineering or installation partners to ensure smooth delivery and setup.
- Keep accurate records of leads, opportunities, and customer interactions in our CRM (Zoho or similar).
- Stay up to date on new machinery, industry trends, and competitor products, and share insights with the wider team.
- Represent Home Chocolate Factory at trade shows, demonstrations, and industry events.
SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
- Proven experience in technical sales, ideally involving machinery, equipment, or capital goods.
- Strong technical aptitude, with the ability to understand machinery and explain it clearly to both beginners and experts.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with a consultative, customer-first approach.
- Commercially minded, confident managing the full sales cycle and comfortable with targets.
- Highly organised, with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple opportunities at once.
- Confident using digital tools and systems (Shopify, Zoho, or similar).
- Fluent English speaker, with additional languages a bonus for supporting international customers.
- Background or genuine interest in chocolate, food production, hospitality, or manufacturing is a big plus.
- Willingness to travel occasionally for customer visits, installations, and trade events.
WHY JOIN
You'll be part of a growing family business that supports the makers behind the UK's best chocolate, combining care, craft, and creativity in everything we do. You'll play a key role in helping chocolatiers and producers grow, equipping them with the machinery that brings their ideas to life. And best of all, you'll be working for a chocolate company.
Technical Sales Manager (Chocolate Machinery) employer: Home Chocolate Factory
Home Chocolate Factory is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship in the chocolate industry. As a Technical Sales Manager based in our London headquarters, you'll enjoy opportunities for professional growth while being part of a supportive family business dedicated to empowering chocolatiers. With a focus on customer relationships and hands-on demonstrations, you'll find your role both meaningful and rewarding, all while indulging in the world of chocolate.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Sales Manager (Chocolate Machinery)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Before your interview, dive into Home Chocolate Factory's history, values, and product range. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! As a Technical Sales Manager, you'll need to demonstrate machinery confidently. Set up mock demonstrations with friends or family to refine your presentation skills and get comfortable explaining technical details.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Attend industry events or trade shows where you can meet potential colleagues and customers. Building relationships now can give you a leg up when it comes to landing that job.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at Home Chocolate Factory. Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Sales Manager (Chocolate Machinery)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Chocolate:When you're writing your application, let your love for chocolate shine through! Share any experiences or interests you have in the chocolate industry, whether it's making it, tasting it, or even just being a fan. We want to see that you're not just applying for a job, but that you're genuinely excited about what we do.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experience align with the Technical Sales Manager role. Use keywords from the job description and demonstrate how you've successfully managed technical sales processes in the past. This helps us see that you're a perfect fit for our team!
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate a well-structured application! Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can communicate effectively, so show us your best writing skills!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows that you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace our modern approach to connecting with customers.
How to prepare for a job interview at Home Chocolate Factory
✨Know Your Chocolate Machinery
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of the chocolate machinery you'll be selling. Familiarise yourself with tempering machines, enrobers, and moulding lines. Being able to discuss their features and benefits confidently will show that you're the expert they need.
✨Master the Sales Process
Understand the full sales cycle from initial enquiry to aftercare. Prepare to discuss how you would guide customers through each step, addressing their needs and concerns. This will demonstrate your consultative approach and ability to build long-term relationships.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Practice explaining complex technical details in simple terms. You might be talking to both seasoned professionals and beginners, so being able to adapt your communication style is key. Consider role-playing with a friend to refine your delivery.
✨Stay Updated on Industry Trends
Research current trends in the chocolate machinery market and be ready to share insights during your interview. Showing that you’re informed about competitors and new technologies will highlight your passion for the industry and your commitment to providing the best solutions for customers.
