At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales and build a reseller network for eco-friendly drinking straws in the UK.
- Company: Join Reedest, a global leader in sustainable products with a mission to reduce plastic waste.
- Benefits: Earn commission on sales, enjoy territory protection, and receive support from a dedicated HQ team.
- Other info: Flexible freelance role with opportunities for growth and success in a dynamic market.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-moving brand making a real impact on sustainability in the hospitality sector.
- Qualifications: Sales experience in HoReCa and a strong network are essential; entrepreneurial spirit is a must!
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
Reedest | The world’s best drinking straws
Reedest is a global company manufacturing 100% natural drinking straws made from common reed. Durable, food-safe, and naturally compostable, Reedest straws are designed to replace most other straws – especially plastic – without compromising the drinking experience.
The Role
We’re seeking an independent Country Manager (Freelance Agent) to represent Reedest in the UK. This is not an employee role; it’s a contractor/agent agreement focused on market development, reseller onboarding, and direct sales in the HoReCa sector (restaurants, bars, hotels, catering) and relevant distributors.
Responsibilities
- Own the market entry & growth plan for the UK: mapping regions, segments, and key accounts.
- Build a reseller network: identify, pitch, and onboard distributors/wholesalers serving HoReCa and retail.
- Win new business: prospect, present, sample, and close deals with restaurant groups, hotels, bars, catering companies, event venues, and eco-retail.
- Manage a pipeline: maintain accurate forecasts, activity logs, and deal stages (lightweight CRM/reporting template provided).
- Account management: secure reorders, track sell-through, gather feedback, and reduce churn.
- Market intelligence: report on competitors, pricing norms, and regulatory trends impacting straws/single-use items.
What we are looking for
- Proven sales/agent experience in the UK (HoReCa, foodservice, packaging, or eco-products).
- Strong distributor/reseller network and comfort with door-opening at the buyer/owner level.
- Fluent English.
- Entrepreneurial & hands-on: prospecting, meetings, follow-ups, and closing are your superpowers.
- Results-driven with clear personal KPIs and disciplined reporting.
- Knowledge of sustainable products and Italy’s hospitality landscape is a plus.
- A driver’s license and willingness to travel within the territory.
What we offer
- Agent/Contractor agreement (freelance).
- Commission on net sales within the UK (tiered/accelerators possible).
- Territory protection for approved accounts you originate.
- Sales enablement: samples, sell sheets, pricing tools, objection-handling guide, and brand assets.
- Warm leads from HQ marketing and trade inquiries, where available.
- Fast-moving, mission-driven brand with a premium, natural product that customers love.
- Supportive HQ team for onboarding, training, and logistics coordination.
Success looks like
- 50 new reseller partners signed in the first 90-120 days.
- Consistent monthly pipeline growth and qualified meetings with key HoReCa groups.
- First reorders from early adopters within 8-12 weeks of trial.
- Quarterly revenue targets met or exceeded.
Contract details
- Status: Independent contractor / commercial agent (not employment).
- Compensation: Commission-based (structure agreed in contract).
- Expenses: Pre-approved out-of-pocket (per policy).
- Reporting: Weekly activity recap + monthly forecast.
- Start: ASAP.
- Seniority level: Entry level.
- Employment type: Contract.
- Job function: Sales and Business Development.
- Industries: Manufacturing.
How to apply
Send your CV and a short cover note (why you + quick snapshot of your HoReCa/distributor network) to toomas@reedest.com with the subject line “Sales Agent UK – Your Name”.
Equal Opportunity
Reedest welcomes applicants of all backgrounds. We value drive, integrity, and a genuine commitment to sustainable, high-quality products.
Sales Agent - The UK employer: Reedest
Reedest is an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in the sustainable products sector. As a freelance Sales Agent in the UK, you will enjoy the flexibility of independent contracting while being supported by a dynamic HQ team and benefiting from a commission-based structure that rewards your success. With a focus on eco-friendly solutions and a commitment to fostering a collaborative work culture, Reedest offers a unique opportunity to grow your professional network and contribute to a mission-driven brand that prioritises sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Agent - The UK
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Public Portfolio
As a freelance sales professional, having a portfolio that highlights your past successes can be a game changer. Include case studies, testimonials, and any results you've achieved in previous roles. This way, potential clients can see your value right away!
✨Join Sales-Focused Online Communities
Here's the scoop: connecting with other sales freelancers can open up doors for collaboration and potential gigs. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or even dedicated forums for sales pros are perfect for staying in the loop about new opportunities and sharing experiences.
✨Network at Industry Events
Don’t underestimate the power of face-to-face networking! Attend industry conferences, seminars, and local meetups. They’re perfect for building relationships and finding potential clients who are in need of your sales expertise. Plus, it's a great way to showcase your personality!
✨Pitch Directly to Companies Like Reedest
When hunting for freelance gigs, don't shy away from reaching out directly to companies like Reedest. Sending a personalised pitch that highlights how you can solve their specific sales challenges might just put you in the right spot at the right time. Make sure to link to your portfolio!
We think you need these skills to ace Sales Agent - The UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Sales Wins:In the sales and business development world, it’s all about results! Make sure to highlight your previous sales achievements in your CV. Metrics matter, so mention specific numbers, targets you’ve met (or exceeded), and successful strategies you've implemented in past roles. This will help us see your impact at a glance!
Tailor Your Portfolio:For this freelance role, having a well-crafted portfolio is crucial. Include case studies that showcase your previous projects, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. If you can, add testimonials from clients that speak to how you drove sales or developed strong business relationships. This not only adds credibility but also demonstrates your ability to deliver.
Be Clear About Your Rates:When applying for freelance gigs like this one at Reedest, transparency is key. In your covering documents, make sure to include your rates or a rough expectation of what you charge. This saves time for both you and us and shows you’re serious about your freelance career!
Convey Your Learning Agility:As a freelancer in sales, being adaptable is essential. In your application, share examples of how you quickly learn new products or services and adjust your strategies accordingly. Show us that you can dive into different industries seamlessly – that’s what we love to see!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reedest
✨Showcase Your Success Stories
As a freelancer in sales and business development, it’s crucial to have a bag full of stories demonstrating how you've driven sales or built relationships. Prepare specific examples that highlight your past successes, detailing the strategies you used and the results you achieved. This way, you'll not only show what you can do, but also provide tangible evidence of your capabilities.
✨Know Your Market Inside Out
Stay on top of industry trends and understand the market landscape for the niche you’re targeting. Familiarise yourself with challenges potential clients face and be ready to discuss how your unique approach can solve those problems. This knowledge will impress your interviewers at Reedest, showing them you’re not just another freelancer, but someone who truly gets the environment they're operating in.
✨Pitch Yourself Like a Client
When interviewing for a freelance gig, think of it as pitching yourself to a potential client. Highlight your services in a way that speaks directly to their needs. Prepare to discuss your rates and the value you bring to the table. After all, you'll be negotiating with them as equal partners, so be upfront about what you can offer and why it’s worth their investment.
✨Anticipate Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions during the interview. They may ask how you would handle a slow sales period or a difficult client. Prepare for these by thinking through your past experiences and highlighting your problem-solving skills. Being able to articulate how you would navigate realistic challenges will set you apart and show them you aren't just ready for the role at Reedest, but equipped to excel in it.
