At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth and build strategic relationships with B2B customers.
- Company: Join a leading retail partnership known for innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and flexible hours.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career development and travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role with global reach.
- Qualifications: Proven sales experience and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 63600 - 95300 £ per year.
As a Senior Business Manager, you will be the Commercial Sales expert for your allocated markets, driving growth and fostering strategic relationships with B2B customers and concession providers. You will play a pivotal role in delivering sales and profit targets, implementing trading plans that create mutual value for our partners and the Partnership. This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with diverse internal teams and external stakeholders to shape our brand and product proposition in the UK and internationally.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Own the commercial relationship with B2B customers and/or concession providers, responsible for retention and growth of accounts.
- Serve as the JLP expert for allocated customer(s) or market(s).
- Accountable for delivery of sales, cash margin and fee income for allocated customers/markets/concession holders.
- Develop positive working relationships with customers and understand their market and requirements.
- Set and implement a trading plan that delivers value for the customer and for JLP.
- Ensure customers and JLP fulfil contractual obligations and comply with operational SLAs and brand standards.
- Support the Commercial Lead in achieving sales and profit targets, agreeing financial budgets and forecasting in season as required.
- Identify product and sales opportunities in the market and contribute learning to product, brand and operational proposition development.
- Work closely with internal teams in Retail, Legal, CS Customer and Operations, Trading, Core Business Operations and Finance.
- Foster and maintain relationships with all levels in client organisations and contacts in Trade Associations, Government Agencies and the wider market.
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS
- Proven ability to trade and sell products into relevant markets and/or sectors (UK and globally as required).
- Track record in meeting or exceeding sales targets in a senior sales role.
- Highly commercial mindset and approach.
- Gravitas and ability to negotiate at a senior level to secure best outcomes for the Partnership.
- Experience demonstrating effective stakeholder management and influencing skills at all levels, both internal and external.
- Regular UK travel required.
- Experience with spreadsheets.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge of Waitrose and John Lewis assortments and buying/merchandising.
- Product or category knowledge and ability to articulate distinct aspects of products and services against competitors.
- Knowledge of foreign languages and other cultures.
OTHER DETAILS
- Salary: £63,600 – £95,300 per annum.
- Contract type: Permanent.
- Location: Bracknell or London Head Office.
- Hybrid working: 3 days in office, mix of home and office as per needs.
- Flexibility in hours available.
- Closing date: June 8, 2026.
Senior Business Manager in Bracknell employer: John Lewis plc
As a Senior Business Manager at our Bracknell or London Head Office, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that values collaboration and innovation. We offer competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and ample opportunities for professional growth, ensuring that you can develop your skills while making a meaningful impact on our B2B relationships. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that prioritises both employee well-being and customer success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Business Manager in Bracknell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Senior Business Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Understand their market position and be ready to discuss how you can drive growth and foster relationships with B2B customers. Show them you mean business!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Senior Business Manager, you'll need to demonstrate gravitas and the ability to secure the best outcomes. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We want to see your application and help you land that dream job. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and making an impact in the commercial sales space.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Business Manager in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Senior Business Manager. Highlight your experience in B2B sales and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive growth and foster relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've met or exceeded sales targets and how you can bring value to our team.
Showcase Your Commercial Mindset:In your application, demonstrate your commercial acumen. Talk about your experience with trading plans and how you've successfully negotiated outcomes that benefit both your clients and your organisation.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and for you to stay updated on your progress!
How to prepare for a job interview at John Lewis plc
✨Know Your Market Inside Out
As a Senior Business Manager, it's crucial to have a deep understanding of the B2B landscape. Research the specific markets you'll be working with and be prepared to discuss current trends, challenges, and opportunities. This will show your potential employer that you're not just familiar with the role but also passionate about driving growth in their business.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
This role is all about fostering strategic relationships, so come ready with examples of how you've successfully built and maintained partnerships in the past. Be specific about the strategies you used and the outcomes achieved. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with clients and stakeholders at all levels.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Since you'll be accountable for sales and profit targets, brush up on your financial acumen. Be ready to discuss how you've met or exceeded sales targets in previous roles. Bring along any relevant data or metrics that highlight your success in managing budgets and forecasting, as this will be key to your credibility.
✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Mindset
Employers are looking for candidates with a highly commercial approach. Think about how you can articulate your understanding of trading plans and how they create value for both customers and the company. Prepare to discuss specific examples where your commercial decisions led to successful outcomes, showcasing your strategic thinking.
