At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive new business and manage key accounts in a dynamic FMCG environment.
- Company: Join a market-leading FMCG manufacturer with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, mentorship opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values transparency and teamwork.
- Why this job: Shape commercial strategy and make a real impact in a growing division.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in FMCG sales with strong account management skills.
Are you a commercially astute National Account Manager with a hunger for new business and a talent for opening doors? We are exclusively partnering with a dynamic, market-leading, FMCG manufacturer to recruit a collaborative professional to lead one of their growing divisions which is fast becoming a significant area of growth for the business. This is a rare opportunity to take full ownership of a strategic channel, blending new business development with key account growth. You will not just manage the status quo - you will shape the strategy, drive brand presence, and mentor your team, all while being supported by a collaborative and positive culture. If you have a proven track record in FMCG, ideally within healthcare, and you are ready to make a tangible impact, we want to hear from you.
The Role
As the Senior National Account Manager, you will be the driving force behind our client's commercial strategy. Reporting directly to the Head of Sales, you will own the channel P&L and be responsible for accelerating growth across healthcare, facilities management, hospitality, education, and wider markets.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- New Business Development: Proactively identifying and securing new business opportunities - this is a 'door-knocking' role. You will seek out opportunities, open doors, and see them through to completion.
- Account Management: Managing and expanding a portfolio of key strategic accounts, including major UK distribution groups.
- Commercial Strategy: Defining and executing the growth strategy, with a focus on both own-label and branded product growth. You will develop launch plans, promotional calendars, and disruptive in-store strategies.
- Team Leadership & Mentorship: Leading and developing a small, high-potential team. This role requires mentorship and the ability to develop commercial acumen in others, rather than just people management.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Working closely with sales, marketing, category, R&D, and supply chain to ensure product, pricing, and service excellence.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Using market insights and customer feedback to shape strategy and strengthen propositions.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a senior sales professional with deep experience in the FMCG sector and a strong commercial acumen. You will be a natural 'hunter' - someone who can open doors and then follow through to secure the deal.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Experience: 5+ years' proven sales experience within FMCG, with a strong track record in new business development and key account growth.
- Sector Knowledge: A background in managing accounts within large UK distribution groups.
- Commercial Acumen: Demonstrable experience owning and managing a P&L, with the ability to forecast accurately and make data-driven commercial decisions.
- Leadership & Mentorship: Proven experience in mentoring or developing a high-performing team. You will be expected to upskill and develop commercial awareness in junior team members.
- Product Knowledge: Strong understanding of both own-label and branded product dynamics.
- Negotiation: Highly credible communicator with exceptional influencing and negotiation skills, confident in managing complex tenders and contracts.
The Culture
This is a collaborative, open, and supportive environment. The leadership team is accessible and the owner encourages a 'solutions-first' mindset. You will be joining a team that values transparency and teamwork. You will be welcomed into a business that genuinely supports its people and backs them to succeed.
How to Apply:
Our client is recruiting now, so please do not delay. If this role sounds ideal for your next move, send us your CV or contact us immediately. We cannot reply to every individual application, however if your experience fits the above criteria, we will make immediate contact.
Senior National Account Manager employer: Lucy Walker Recruitment
Join a dynamic, market-leading FMCG manufacturer that prioritises collaboration and employee growth. As a Senior National Account Manager, you will thrive in a supportive culture that encourages innovation and mentorship, allowing you to shape strategies and drive significant impact across various sectors. With a focus on transparency and teamwork, this role offers a unique opportunity to develop your career while making a tangible difference in the business.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior National Account Manager
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like Senior National Account Manager at Lucy Walker Recruitment, presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including Lucy Walker Recruitment. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Senior National Account Manager. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior National Account Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for Lucy Walker Recruitment:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Lucy Walker Recruitment. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lucy Walker Recruitment
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show Lucy Walker Recruitment that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show Lucy Walker Recruitment that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with Lucy Walker Recruitment’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.
