At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic sales team and drive revenue growth for major B2B exhibitions.
- Company: Join an ambitious events business with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, uncapped commission, hybrid working, and excellent development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant work environment with social events and enhanced family benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the food, drink, and hospitality sector while achieving ambitious growth.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in B2B event sales and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 60000 £ per year.
We're looking for an experienced 'player / manager' to take ownership of a market-leading portfolio of large-scale B2B exhibitions within the food, drink and hospitality sector. This is an exciting opportunity to join an ambitious events business and lead the commercial strategy for two flagship exhibitions that connect thousands of international buyers, suppliers and industry leaders every year.
As Portfolio Commercial Manager, you'll combine strategic leadership with hands‑on selling. Managing a team of five sales professionals, you'll develop and deliver commercial plans that drive exhibition sales, sponsorship revenue, customer retention and new business growth, while maintaining your own portfolio of key accounts.
You will be responsible for:
- Leading, coaching and developing a high‑performing commercial sales team.
- Creating and delivering revenue growth strategies aligned with wider business objectives.
- Growing exhibition, sponsorship and partnership income through new business and key account management.
- Driving CRM excellence, sales forecasting and pipeline management.
About you
We're looking for someone who combines commercial instinct with strong leadership skills. You'll bring:
- A successful track record in exhibition or B2B event sales.
- Experience managing or mentoring sales teams.
- Strong negotiation, presentation and relationship‑building skills.
- Experience selling sponsorships, partnerships or exhibition space.
Most importantly, you'll be commercially driven, collaborative, curious and motivated by achieving ambitious growth targets.
What we offer
You’ll join a well‑established business with an entrepreneurial culture, clear growth ambitions and a collaborative working environment. Alongside a competitive salary and uncapped commission, we offer hybrid working, excellent learning and development opportunities, enhanced family benefits, pension, wellbeing initiatives, social events and a wide range of additional employee benefits.
Commercial Manager employer: MANU FORTI
Join a dynamic and ambitious events business in London, where you'll thrive in a collaborative culture that values entrepreneurial spirit and professional growth. As a Portfolio Commercial Manager, you will not only lead a high-performing sales team but also enjoy excellent learning opportunities, hybrid working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package, including uncapped commission and enhanced family support. This role offers the chance to make a significant impact in the food, drink, and hospitality sector while connecting with industry leaders at large-scale B2B exhibitions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like MANU FORTI. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to MANU FORTI
Don't be shy about reaching out to MANU FORTI directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about MANU FORTI and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at MANU FORTI
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!