At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth and build partnerships in the foodservice industry.
- Company: Join Solina, a fast-growing company passionate about food and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonus scheme, car allowance, and more.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for networking and career growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of foodservice with innovative solutions and culinary creativity.
- Qualifications: Culinary experience and a passion for food; sales experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
At Solina, our community of close to 5,000 people share a passion for food and live our entrepreneurial culture. We design customised savoury solutions for our clients operating in the food industry, food service, butchery and nutrition markets. With sustainability at the heart of our business model, we aim to produce food that is good in every sense of the word: delicious, nourishing, affordable, sustainable and convenient.
Solina is a fast-growing business, with around 50 production sites and R&D laboratories present in more than 19 countries mainly in Europe and North America. By constantly rethinking culinary solutions, we make food matter for people and the planet. If you're ready for a new adventure in a dynamic, expanding, passionate, international company, join us!
Drive Growth. Win Sales. Shape the Future of Foodservice.
Are you a commercially minded chef looking for their first sales role or a salesperson with a passion for food and a hunger to win? As a Business Development Manager at Solina Foodservice, representing our market-leading brands Rich Sauces, Essential Cuisine, and Zafron Foods, you’ll be on the front line of growth. From Michelin-level kitchens and premium hotels to fast-scaling restaurant groups and institutional operators, you’ll identify opportunities, open doors, and convert conversations into profitable partnerships—where bold flavours, culinary innovation, and high-impact sales come together.
This is more than a sales role — it’s about building lasting partnerships, launching bold ideas, and putting innovative food solutions on the map. You’ll have the freedom to explore new channels, pitch game-changing concepts, and influence what’s on menus across your region.
Key Responsibilities:- Strategic Business Development
- Identify and target new business opportunities within the foodservice channel (e.g., QSRs, hotels, schools, healthcare, distributors).
- Develop and execute strategies to penetrate new markets or expand existing ones.
- Analyse market trends, competitor activities, and consumer behaviour to inform growth strategies.
- Client Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and potential customers (e.g., chefs, procurement managers, foodservice distributors).
- Act as the main point of contact for key accounts, ensuring customer satisfaction and long-term partnerships.
- Conduct regular meetings and presentations to clients to showcase products and solutions.
- Sales & Revenue Growth
- Drive sales by promoting products and solutions tailored to the foodservice sector.
- Collaborate with sales teams to meet or exceed sales targets and KPIs.
- Negotiate contracts, pricing, and service agreements in line with company policy.
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Work closely with marketing, R&D, supply chain, and finance teams to align product offerings and delivery with customer needs.
- Provide market and customer feedback to internal teams to guide product innovation and improvements.
- Product & Menu Development Support
- Assist customers in integrating products into their menus or foodservice operations.
- Provide insights on product usage, preparation, and application in commercial kitchens.
- Budgeting and Reporting
- Develop and manage business development budgets.
- Prepare regular sales forecasts, reports, and performance analyses for senior management.
- Event Participation & Networking
- Represent the company at foodservice trade shows, exhibitions, and industry networking events.
- Organize and lead product demonstrations or sampling events for potential clients.
- Clean UK driving license.
- Thorough knowledge of food trends, backed up with credible, recent culinary experience.
- Good knowledge of some (if not all) of the following sectors: Hotels, pubs and restaurants, QSR, contract catering, education and healthcare and manufacturing.
- Some prior sales experience within the food wholesale sector would be advantageous.
- Self-motivated, confident and outgoing with the ability to build relationships at various levels.
- A passion for food and cooking.
- This role could be ideal for a commercially minded chef, looking for their first serious sales role.
- Given the territory and the area to be covered, the ideal candidate will be located in the N/E of England or the S/E of Scotland.
- Competitive Salary, Bonus Scheme, Car Allowance, Pension Scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Cycle to Work Scheme.
We are open to talents of all backgrounds. Our recruitment process is based on competences, and we openly welcome all candidates of all types according to our DEI Commitment.
Business Development Manager - Scotland and the North of England in Winsford employer: Solina Group
At Solina, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, fostering a vibrant and entrepreneurial culture that thrives on innovation and sustainability. Our team enjoys competitive salaries, a bonus scheme, and comprehensive benefits, all while working in a dynamic environment that encourages personal and professional growth. Join us in Winsford, where your passion for food can shape the future of foodservice and make a meaningful impact on both people and the planet.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager - Scotland and the North of England in Winsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend food industry events, trade shows, and local meet-ups. It's all about making connections and showing your passion for food – you never know who might be looking for a Business Development Manager!
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared to showcase your culinary knowledge. When you get that interview, bring your A-game by discussing recent food trends and how they can impact the business. Show them you’re not just a salesperson, but someone who truly understands the foodservice landscape.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Whether it’s a casual chat or a formal presentation, being able to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently is key. Tailor your pitch to highlight how you can drive growth and build partnerships in the food industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our community at Solina.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager - Scotland and the North of England in Winsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share any culinary experiences or insights that highlight your enthusiasm for the industry. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission at Solina.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Business Development Manager role. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the job description. This shows us you’re serious about joining our team and understand what we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our community at Solina.
How to prepare for a job interview at Solina Group
✨Know Your Food Trends
Make sure you brush up on the latest food trends and culinary innovations. Being able to discuss current market dynamics and how they relate to Solina's offerings will show your passion for the industry and your readiness to drive growth.
✨Build Your Pitch
Prepare a compelling pitch that highlights how you can identify opportunities and convert conversations into partnerships. Think about specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully built relationships or driven sales.
✨Research the Company
Dive deep into Solina’s mission, values, and product lines. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and how they operate in the foodservice sector will help you align your answers with their goals during the interview.
✨Practice Relationship Management Scenarios
Be ready to discuss how you would manage client relationships. Prepare scenarios where you've had to negotiate or resolve conflicts, as this role is all about building lasting partnerships and ensuring customer satisfaction.
