National Account Manager UK (Off-Trade)

Nyetimber is a pioneering luxury brand and multiple award-winning English sparkling wine producer. Our story is one of many firsts; we were the first to pioneer the now-established style of English sparkling wine; we were the first to grow the renowned grape varieties Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier in England exclusively for producing sparkling wine; and the estate where our vines were first planted, was first mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086 by its then Anglo-Saxon name “Nyetimbraha”.

Quality is key to absolutely everything we do at Nyetimber and there is a constant strive for perfection. We produce exceptional sparkling wine, but always keep in mind that the reference to exceptional goes beyond wine, it extends to every touch point of the brand.

The National Account Manager will be responsible for developing sales and distribution amongst new and existing retail customers, with a focus on National Multiple Retailers and online nationals. You will develop key relationships at Buyer, Merchandiser, Marketing, Supply Chain and Store level within these retailers to ensure our products are not only sold into these retailers, but also sold out and marketed within the trade according to the Nyetimber Group’s brand status.

In addition, you will be accountable for all aspects of these strategically important channels, including volume, value & margin improvement, forecasting & phasing, trade marketing, brand activation (including in-store merchandising, training, visibility, online, etc.) and overall account management (including joint-business planning process & annual contract negotiations).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with buyers to drive year-on-year growth in volume, value, and profit, in line with established budgets.
• Cultivate connections across key retailer departments, including marketing, demand planning, store operations, and management, to maximize opportunities for the brand and ensure compliance with retail expectations.
• In collaboration with the Head of Sales Off Trade, develop and implement channel strategy for National Retail and Online sales channels leveraging cross-selling opportunities for both Nyetimber and The Lakes.
• Ensure year-on-year growth in key style volume, value, and profit in alignment with budgetary goals.
• Under the strategic direction of the Head of Sales Off Trade, manage the Joint Business Plan (JBP) process, ensuring alignment with financial and trade marketing objectives.
• Negotiate annual contracts and any changes to trade terms throughout the year.
• Coordinate and manage promotional activities with retail partners.
• Collaborate with trade marketing to design and execute impactful trade marketing programs to highlight the brand and boost sales.
• Oversee the day-to-day management of retail accounts, with support from the Account Executive.
• Execute an organized and well-documented program of engagement, training, and tastings to strengthen the brand and increase sales.
• Participate in Nyetimber internal and external customer events and conferences.
• Develop and implement a recruitment strategy to drive new brand and Own Label business.
• Conduct weekly one-on-ones with the line manager, and provide bi-monthly sales reports, including budget positions and forward forecasts.
• Work closely with sales logistics and the winery to communicate forecasts, assist with production planning for large retail orders, and support any major operational projects.
• Manage and report on Nielson data for sales insights.
• Perform regular store visits to ensure retail compliance and conduct competitor analysis.
• Deliver in-store training sessions, build relationships with store managers and staff, maintain product listings, and organize tastings and events for both staff and customers.
• Create and implement a recruitment strategy for new listings for Group brands.
• Manage relationships with e-commerce partners such as Amazon, Ocado, and the online divisions of traditional retailers.
• Work closely with Trade Marketing and Marketing teams to execute market-leading retail activations in line with the brand’s luxury positioning.
• Ensure optimal in-store merchandising and product visibility.
• Perform additional duties as required, in alignment with the responsibilities of the role or as requested by management.
• Act as a Brand Ambassador for Nyetimber, representing the brand externally.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Experience managing key accounts within national and online retail, ideally possessing a network of relevant industry contacts.
• National Retail Sales experience in the premium drinks industry, preferably with a multi-brand portfolio, showcasing a deep understanding of market dynamics.
• Proven luxury brand-building expertise, with a track record of driving brand growth and recognition in high-end markets.
• Background in account management, with a strong focus on client relationships and achieving commercial targets.
• Proven ability to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring long-term collaboration and mutual success.
• Self-driven and highly motivated with the capability to work independently, demonstrating strong initiative and ownership of tasks.
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, enabling clear and concise interaction with clients, internal teams, and senior leadership.
• Outstanding organisational skills, with a keen ability to prioritise tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet tight deadlines.
• Focus on commercial strategy and luxury brand development, with a deep understanding of the nuances of premium products.
• Strong analytical abilities, with a proven track record of using data to inform decisions and drive performance.
• Proven negotiation skills, with experience in negotiating annual contracts, adjusting trade terms, and ensuring alignment with both business objectives and customer requirements.
• Resilient under pressure, able to meet and exceed targets while maintaining a high level of professionalism in fast-paced environments.
• Highly proficient in literacy and numeracy, with attention to detail and accuracy in reporting and analysis.
• Advanced skills in Excel and PowerPoint, with the ability to create detailed reports, presentations, and analyses.
• Wine-related qualifications such as WSET or equivalent are highly desirable, though not essential.
• Willingness and flexibility to travel across the UK to visit customers and stores, promoting in-person relationships and driving sales.

THE NYETIMBER EXPERIENCE:

• Be a part of the world renowned English sparkling wine and multi award winning wine producer.
• Work for a true British heritage brand
• Beautiful central London office
• Excellent development, growth, and progression opportunities
• 25 days holiday
• Generous staff purchasing privileges.
• 5% Pension
• Life Assurance
• Simply Health Cash plan
• Perkbox