At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead pre-sales engagements, showcasing our innovative automation solutions to prospective customers.
- Company: Join Ocado Group, a leader in online grocery automation and cutting-edge technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, private medical insurance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunity for international travel and excellent career growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team transforming retail technology and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in pre-sales or similar roles, with strong technical and commercial skills.
The predicted salary is between 60750 - 74250 £ per year.
About Us
We are Ocado Group, and we're bringing world-class automation to online grocery. Our Ocado Smart Platform (OSP) combines cutting-edge robotics, AI, and IoT within our advanced CFCs (Customer Fulfilment Centres). We've mastered the single pick, transforming online delivery for our global partners. Join us and be part of a team pushing the boundaries of retail technology.
About the Role
The Pre-Sales Manager works cross-functionally with prospective customers, existing partners and stakeholders across Ocado Group. You will represent the full OSP proposition throughout the end-to-end pre-sales process, clearly articulating the value, benefits and differentiators of our software and automation solutions. From understanding retailer challenges and defining requirements to shaping and costing potential solutions and supporting the negotiation of key commercial and contractual terms, you will act as the central point of coordination for solution-related matters. By developing a detailed understanding of each retailer’s business, strategy and requirements, you will help shape compelling propositions and support the successful execution of future OSP deals.
- Lead customer engagements across Ocado’s end-to-end proposition, covering both Ocado Smart Platform software and our automated Customer Fulfilment Centre solutions.
- Typical activities include presentations, site tours, and visiting prospects around the world to assist in delivering the end-to-end pre-sales process.
- Delivery of the full pre-sales methodology, taking partners & prospects from the first point of contact to signing a contract.
- Writing, updating and negotiating key legal contractual documents for specific deals.
- Support RFP responses, commercial negotiations and contract development.
- Shape solutions spanning ecommerce, fulfilment, supply chain, last mile and CFC automation.
- Lead discussions with partners & prospects to help them understand the benefits of the OSP Solution; acting as the subject matter expert in the room.
- Coordinate subject-matter experts across Product, Engineering, Operations, Finance, Legal and Delivery.
- Capture customer and market insights to inform product strategy and future propositions.
- Creating clear and compelling content for senior internal stakeholders to obtain sign-off for projects and key business decisions.
- Actively gather and clarify prospect requirements; representing any capability gaps between their needs and the current OSP Solution to internal Technology stakeholders to drive prioritisation.
- Thorough understanding of client-specific business or operational metrics and their impact on choosing the right OSP solution.
- Use, develop & improve models/tools for costing, CFC sizing considerations and content to support the sales process.
About you
Relevant industry experience working with comparable solutions and/or in a pre-sales role. Strong technical and commercial acumen, with experience shaping solutions around customer needs and business outcomes. Strong knowledge of and practical experience with Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Software as a Service (SaaS) models. Comfortable in customer-facing environments, including navigating challenging conversations and conflicting stakeholder priorities. A genuine interest in our products and the retailers we serve, with the curiosity to understand their challenges and identify how our solutions can deliver meaningful value. Proven ability to build credibility and influence with senior stakeholders, including Board, CEO, CIO and CTO-level audiences. Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong internal and external relationships and become a trusted adviser. Strong presentation and storytelling skills, with the ability to communicate complex solutions and their benefits at the appropriate level for each audience. Skilled at facilitating discovery sessions, workshops and decision-making forums that deliver clear outcomes. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work through ambiguity and develop practical solutions. Willingness to travel internationally for short periods, sometimes at short notice, in response to customer requirements. Knowledge of and experience in the retail sector, preferably grocery, would be advantageous. Experience with integrated software, automation, fulfilment or warehouse technology solutions would also be advantageous.
What we offer
We believe in supporting our people with meaningful, flexible benefits that prioritise well-being and work-life balance. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:
- Time to recharge: 25 days annual leave (rising to 27 after 5 years), plus the option to buy more – and 30 days a year to work from anywhere in the world.
- Health & wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance from your first month, wellbeing support through specialist apps and EAP, plus Income Protection and Life Assurance.
- Family-first policies: 22 weeks paid maternity/primary carer leave and 6 weeks paid paternity leave.
- Financial support: Pension with employer matching up to 7%, share schemes (Sharesave & BAYE), and interest-free loans for train tickets.
- Commuter perks: Cycle to Work Scheme and free shuttle buses to/from Hatfield and Welwyn Garden City stations.
- Exclusive discounts: 15% off at Ocado.com with free delivery (starting in your first month).
Pre-Sales Manager in Hatfield employer: Ocado Group
At Ocado Logistics, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where every team member plays a crucial role in delivering outstanding customer experiences. With flexible part-time hours, competitive pay including paid breaks, and a comprehensive benefits package tailored to your lifestyle, we ensure that our employees feel valued and supported. Join us in Luton, where you'll enjoy a friendly atmosphere, opportunities for personal growth, and the chance to make a real difference in people's lives every day.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pre-Sales Manager in Hatfield
✨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 Pre-Sales Manager at Ocado Group, 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 Ocado Group. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Pre-Sales Manager. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Pre-Sales Manager in Hatfield
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 Ocado Group:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Ocado Group. 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 Ocado Group
✨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 Ocado Group 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 Ocado Group 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 Ocado Group’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.
