At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and build the UK On-Trade channel, driving growth and team performance.
- Company: Dynamic FMCG drinks company focused on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company car, bonus, and remote work flexibility.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Shape a key growth channel and make a significant impact on the business.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in the On Trade drinks sector.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
FMCG – Drinks - On Trade
Hybrid – primarily remote with travel regionally (SW and NW) 2 days a week
£70,000-£80,000 + company car / car allowance + bonus
The Role
We're looking for an entrepreneurial and commercially driven Head of On-Trade to build and lead our UK On-Trade channel from the ground up. This is a high impact role with responsibility for developing the On Trade strategy, securing distribution across key national and regional groups, and building a high-performing field sales team. Initially, you'll lead two Territory Managers covering the North West and South West, with scope to expand the team as the business grows.
Key Responsibilities
- Build and own the UK On-Trade strategy, identifying the most profitable opportunities by outlet type, geography, customer group, and route to market.
- Drive distribution growth across national accounts, regional operators, and independent free trade customers.
- Lead relationships and negotiations with key groups, wholesalers, and route to market partners.
- Create and execute city plans across the South West, North West, and Midlands, with clear KPIs and execution standards.
- Develop impactful activation programmes that drive trial, repeat purchase, and brand advocacy.
- Coach, support, and hold the field team accountable through structured performance routines.
- Use data and market insight to improve distribution, throughput, pricing, promotional effectiveness, and SKU focus.
About You
- Proven experience in an On Trade leadership role within a scale-up, challenger, or high-growth drinks business.
- Experience building channels, teams, or business units from scratch.
- Strong understanding of the UK On Trade landscape and route-to-market partners.
- Resilient, commercially driven, and comfortable finding solutions without the resources of a large corporate.
- Positive, hands-on leader who leads by example and thrives in a fast-paced environment.
Why Join?
This is an opportunity to shape a key growth channel, build a team, and make a significant impact on the future of the business. For the right individual, there is genuine potential to progress into a broader commercial leadership role as the company continues to grow.
People are at the heart of everything we do. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process that means people can be their best authentic self.
We would love to reply to all applications, regrettably we are unable to do so due to the high volumes we receive, so if you do not hear back within 14 days unfortunately on this role it won't be progressing. It is possible that the position could be in the process of closing, so chalk it up to bad timing. But, have no fear! There will be more opportunities. Follow us at Mackenzie Jones Recruitment so you don't miss them.
Head of Sales - On Trade in Bristol employer: Mackenzie Jones
Join a dynamic and entrepreneurial team as the Head of Sales - On Trade, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape the UK On-Trade strategy and build a high-performing sales team from the ground up. With a strong focus on employee growth and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, this role offers competitive compensation, a company car or allowance, and the chance to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment. Embrace the challenge of driving distribution growth while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model, primarily remote with regional travel.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sales - On Trade in Bristol
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or recruiters, make sure to highlight your achievements and how they relate to the role. Use specific examples that demonstrate your experience in building teams and driving sales growth in the On Trade sector.
✨Follow Up Like a Boss
After interviews or networking events, send a quick follow-up message to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the role. This shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s just good manners!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only gives you a better chance of being noticed but also shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sales - On Trade in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Sales - On Trade role. Highlight your experience in building channels and teams, as well as your understanding of the UK On Trade landscape. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
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 entrepreneurial role. Share specific examples of your past successes in sales leadership and how you plan to drive distribution growth with us.
Showcase Your Data Skills:Since data and market insight are key to this role, make sure to mention any relevant experience you have with using data to improve sales strategies. We love candidates who can leverage insights to make informed decisions!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out on the chance to join our dynamic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mackenzie Jones
✨Know Your On-Trade Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into the UK On Trade market. Understand the key players, trends, and challenges. This knowledge will not only impress but also help you articulate how you can drive distribution growth effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership approach and how you've built teams in the past. Share specific examples of how you've coached and held teams accountable, as this role requires a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Think about how you would develop and execute an On-Trade strategy. Be prepared to discuss potential city plans and KPIs you would implement. This shows that you're not just a doer but a strategic thinker who can lead from the front.
✨Bring Data to the Table
Since the role involves using data and market insights, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to improve sales performance in previous roles. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to make data-driven decisions.
