At a Glance
- Tasks: Build and enhance relationships with independent retailers across Northern England and Scotland.
- Company: Join a leading brand known for its ethical practices and premium products.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, growth opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Field-based role with excellent career development potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving sales and customer satisfaction in a dynamic market.
- Qualifications: Proven sales growth experience and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking an ambitious Area Business Manager to build, maintain and enhance our relationships with retailers across Northern England and Scotland. Your goal will be to deliver Sony UK’s (SUK) budgeted sales and share of business through nominated independent retailer businesses within the buying group channel. Crucial to the position is someone who brings local commercial acumen and a customer‑first mindset.
You will seek to build on existing and long‑standing relationships with independent businesses, who respond best to genuine customer care and engagement. You should also have a sell‑out mindset, and the ability to understand data, investment vs outcomes, and maintain up‑to‑date pipelines and forecasts. This is a field‑based role, so you will devise smart route planning for great account coverage.
You will be part of a strong, collaborative and friendly team, who support each other to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities. You will enjoy the growth opportunity here, and be part of a super‑brand, with premium products, within a “most ethical companies” winner for consecutive years.
You Will Deliver
- Agreed sales, margin and customer satisfaction targets by developing and executing channel and account business plans aligned to company and retailer strategies.
- Drive ranging, availability, merchandising and promotional execution across accounts to maximise sell‑through, conversion and brand representation.
- Forecast sales, manage stock flow and optimise replenishment to deliver profitable growth across physical and online channels.
- Implement national and regional promotions, supporting brand and product awareness through dealer engagement, training and in‑store activity.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key retail stakeholders and internal sales and marketing teams, ensuring clear communication and effective collaboration.
- Develop and execute sales strategies by account and product category, identifying opportunities, barriers and tactical solutions to exceed performance targets.
- Ensure retail staff are trained and confident in communicating product features, benefits and launches.
- Analyse area, store and category performance, providing regular reporting and insights to inform future sales, category and brand strategies.
- Plan and manage an effective journey plan to ensure regular, value‑adding contact with key decision makers.
- Work closely with the Key Account Sales Manager to align area plans with wider business objectives.
You Will Bring
- A track record of delivering profitable sales growth.
- Numeracy, and an ability to identify trends and opportunities i.e. manage tactical expenditure to drive demonstrable ROI.
- Advanced social, communication, negotiation skills.
Area Business Manager - Independent Retailers - Northern UK & Scotland in Surrey employer: Sony Europe
Contact Detail:
Sony Europe Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Business Manager - Independent Retailers - Northern UK & Scotland in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the local market like the back of your hand! Research independent retailers in Northern England and Scotland, understand their needs, and tailor your approach. This will help you build genuine relationships that can lead to successful partnerships.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just rely on your CV; showcase your personality! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or clients, let your passion for customer care and engagement shine through. People love working with those who are enthusiastic and approachable.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your follow-ups! After meetings or networking events, drop a quick email to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest. This keeps you fresh in their minds and shows that you’re genuinely interested in building a relationship.
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise our website to find opportunities that match your skills! We’ve got a range of roles that could be perfect for you. Apply directly through us to streamline your application process and increase your chances of landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Area Business Manager - Independent Retailers - Northern UK & Scotland in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about building relationships with independent retailers and driving sales. A little passion goes a long way!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the job description. Highlight your experience in retail and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to deliver sales growth. We love seeing how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Be Data Savvy: Since understanding data is crucial for this role, don’t shy away from showcasing your analytical skills. Include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve performance in previous roles. We appreciate a candidate who can think strategically!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sony Europe
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your numerical skills and be ready to discuss sales figures, trends, and forecasts. Understanding how to analyse data and demonstrate ROI will show that you have the commercial acumen needed for the role.
✨Build Rapport with Retailers
Since this role is all about relationships, think of ways to connect with independent retailers. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built and maintained relationships in the past, and be ready to share your customer-first mindset.
✨Showcase Your Sell-Out Mindset
Be prepared to discuss your approach to maximising sell-through and conversion rates. Think of specific strategies you've implemented before and how they led to successful outcomes, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Plan Your Journey
As this is a field-based role, demonstrate your ability to devise smart route plans. Bring along a sample journey plan or discuss how you would approach account coverage to ensure regular contact with key decision-makers.