At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and grow customer accounts while identifying new business opportunities in the food industry.
- Company: Shepcote, a family-run business with a rich history in quality food products.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, commission, bonuses, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and make a real impact in the food service sector.
- Qualifications: Experience in field sales, strong communication skills, and a passion for food.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Shepcote is a family run business founded in 1969 based in Driffield, East Yorkshire. We pride ourselves on our first‑class products and first‑class service. We manufacture marzipan fruits and cake decorations under our own brand and own label. We source and supply sugar and syrups and ingredients such as nuts, seeds and dried fruit and beans, pulses and grains to bakeries, food service, health food shops and retail outlets including farm shops and delicatessens.
The Role
We are looking for a self‑motivated and proactive Area Sales Manager to join our Sales Team. This is a field‑based role focused on maintaining and developing existing customers, identifying growth opportunities, and increasing sales and profitability within your designated area. You’ll spend the majority of your time on the road meeting customers, managing existing accounts, and building new ones across food service, wholesale, and retail sectors.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and grow existing customer accounts within your assigned territory.
- Identify and secure new business opportunities in food service, wholesale, and niche retail markets.
- Build strong, positive relationships with customers through regular site visits, calls, and updates.
- Resolving customer complaints and issues where needed.
- Present product proposals and promotions tailored to customer needs.
- Negotiate prices and terms within agreed company parameters.
- Collaborate with the internal Sales and Customer Service teams to ensure customer satisfaction and smooth order processing.
- Maintain accurate records of visits, communications, and sales activity using our sales system.
- Provide regular updates and summary of sales performance to the Senior Sales Manager.
- Attend relevant trade shows and networking events to promote Shepcote and gather market insight.
- Support the wider Sales Team by sharing customer and market feedback, including ideas for new lines.
We’d love to hear from you, if you have:
- Strong experience and performance in field sales and territory management within the food ingredients and bakery trade.
- Proven ability to develop customer relationships and deliver against sales targets.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills.
- Self‑motivated, well‑organised, and comfortable working independently.
- Confident presenting to customers and handling objections.
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.
- Extensive knowledge of bakery, confectionery and health food markets.
What We Offer
- Salary: Competitive subject to experience.
- Commission
- Discretionary Company Bonus
- Expenses
- Location: Field-based with regular travel
- Hours: 37.5 - 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday
- Holidays: 25 + bank holidays
- Pension: 5% EE / 3% ER
- Training and ongoing support
Shepcote is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace. We recruit and reward based on capability and performance, irrespective of gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, race, background, physical ability, or gender identity. If you require reasonable adjustments or support during the recruitment or interview process, please inform us, and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
Area Sales Manager in Driffield employer: Shepcote Distributors Limited
Shepcote is an exceptional employer that values its employees and fosters a supportive work culture. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we offer competitive salaries, a discretionary company bonus, and opportunities for professional growth within the thriving food ingredients sector. Our family-run ethos ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to our success while enjoying the flexibility of a field-based role in the picturesque East Yorkshire region.
Contact Detail:
Shepcote Distributors Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Sales Manager in Driffield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Shepcote's products and values so you can chat confidently about how you can contribute. This shows you're genuinely interested and not just another candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend industry events or trade shows where Shepcote might be present. It's a great way to meet potential colleagues and get your name out there. Plus, who doesn’t love a good chat over marzipan?
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Area Sales Manager. Highlight your successes in field sales and how you’ve built relationships in the food service sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After interviews or networking events, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Area Sales Manager in Driffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Area Sales Manager role. Highlight your field sales experience, especially in the food ingredients and bakery trade, to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about sales and how you can help Shepcote grow. Be sure to mention any relevant achievements or experiences that demonstrate your ability to build customer relationships.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of customer interaction, make sure your written application showcases your communication skills. Keep it clear, concise, and professional, but don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:We’d love to see your application come through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of all applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining the Shepcote family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shepcote Distributors Limited
✨Know Your Product Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with Shepcote’s products and services. Understand the marzipan fruits, cake decorations, and other ingredients they offer. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Sales Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed customer accounts and identified new business opportunities in the past. Use metrics to highlight your achievements, such as sales growth percentages or successful negotiations, to showcase your ability to meet targets.
✨Build Rapport with the Interviewers
Since this role involves building relationships with customers, it’s essential to demonstrate your interpersonal skills during the interview. Be friendly, engage in conversation, and show enthusiasm for the company and its mission. This will reflect how you’d interact with clients.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s growth plans, customer base, and market challenges. This not only shows your interest but also gives you valuable insights into how you can contribute to Shepcote’s success as an Area Sales Manager.
