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 chocolate makers.
- Benefits: Join a supportive family business with a passion for chocolate and creativity.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel and growth in a dynamic industry.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping chocolatiers bring their ideas to life.
- 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) in Westminster 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. Based in London, our team enjoys a supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth, hands-on training, and the chance to build lasting relationships with customers. Join us to be part of a family business that values your contributions while you help shape the future of chocolate making.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Sales Manager (Chocolate Machinery) in Westminster
✨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 Home Chocolate Factory might be present. This is a great way to meet potential colleagues and customers, plus it shows you're proactive about building relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After interviews or networking events, send a quick thank-you email. It’s a simple way to keep the conversation going and remind them of your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Sales Manager (Chocolate Machinery) in Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Chocolate:When writing your application, let your love for chocolate shine through! Share any relevant experiences or interests that connect you to the chocolate industry. We want to see that you're not just applying for a job, but that you're genuinely excited about being part of the chocolate-making community.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your technical sales experience, especially in machinery or equipment. We’re looking for someone who understands our products and can communicate their benefits effectively, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your information logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Home Chocolate Factory!
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 your technical aptitude and passion for the product.
✨Understand Customer Needs
Prepare to discuss how you would approach understanding a customer's production needs. Think about questions you might ask to uncover their requirements and how you can tailor your recommendations. This consultative approach is key in technical sales.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Practice explaining complex machinery concepts in simple terms. You might be speaking to both beginners and experts, so being able to adapt your communication style is crucial. Consider role-playing with a friend to refine your delivery.
✨Show Your Passion for Chocolate
Let your enthusiasm for chocolate and food production shine through. Share any relevant experiences or interests you have in the industry. This personal touch can help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate that you're not just looking for a job, but a role that excites you.