At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and grow trade accounts while building relationships in the premium wine market.
- Company: Award-winning boutique producer of English sparkling and still wines.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay, and opportunities to attend industry events.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel opportunities and a chance to work independently.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and elevate the reputation of English wines across the UK.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in wine sales, strong knowledge of the UK wine market, and WSET Level 3 minimum.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Sugrue South Downs is the award-winning boutique producer of English sparkling and still wines, crafted by celebrated winemakers Dermot and Ana Sugrue. Due to rapidly growing interest in our wines, we are seeking an experienced and motivated Sales Manager to manage and grow our trade accounts in London and the South through building relationships with key accounts and at the same time strengthening the reputation and presence of Sugrue South Downs across the UK market. This is a hands-on role suited to a commercially-driven individual with a deep understanding of the premium wine trade and the on and off trade together with a passion for English wine.
Key Responsibilities
- Account Management
- Take ownership of sales across on- and off-trade accounts, ensuring exceptional service and long-term loyalty at all levels, from sommelier to director level.
- Develop and nurture relationships with key ambassador accounts and by-the-glass listings.
- Conduct regular on-site visits to strengthen relationships and understand the individual needs of each account.
- Deliver staff training sessions and host trade tastings, both on-site and at the winery.
- Business Development
- Identify and pursue new sales opportunities to drive sustainable revenue growth.
- Expand awareness, distribution and appreciation of Sugrue South Downs wines across the UK on- and off-trade.
- Work closely with the Sales Director and Marketing Director to deliver sales and brand strategies that elevate the Sugrue South Downs portfolio.
- Wine Expertise and Market Knowledge
- Maintain a detailed and up-to-date understanding of the Sugrue South Downs range.
- Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and regional market dynamics.
- Attend tastings and industry events to build product knowledge and develop new relationships.
- Represent Sugrue South Downs at trade tastings, events, and industry showcases.
- Administration and Reporting
- Maintain accurate records of sales activity, customer interactions, and market intelligence.
- Prepare and submit regular sales reports and forecasts to the Sales Director (Ana Sugrue) and Chairman (Robin Hutson).
- Manage sales expenses in line with company policies.
- Handle customer complaints professionally and escalate where appropriate.
- Ensure all sales activity complies with UK alcohol licensing and legal requirements.
- Attend weekly team meetings, either in person or remotely.
About You
- Minimum 5+ years’ proven sales experience within the wine industry.
- Strong knowledge of English wine and the wider UK wine market.
- Established network of trade contacts.
- WSET Level 3 minimum (Level 4 Diploma preferred).
- Excellent communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills.
- Self-motivated, organised and comfortable working independently across a geographically dispersed territory.
- Confident using Microsoft Office and CRM systems.
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel within London and occasionally across the UK.
Sales Manager (Part-time/Full-time) employer: Sugrue South Downs
Sugrue South Downs is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values innovation and collaboration in the premium wine sector. With a focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and networking within the vibrant London and UK trade markets. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to excellence and making a mark in the wine industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Manager (Part-time/Full-time)
✨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 Sales Manager (Part-time/Full-time) at Sugrue South Downs, 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 Sugrue South Downs. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Sales Manager (Part-time/Full-time). Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Sales Manager (Part-time/Full-time)
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 Sugrue South Downs:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Sugrue South Downs. 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 Sugrue South Downs
✨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 Sugrue South Downs 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 Sugrue South Downs 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 Sugrue South Downs’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.
