At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the sales strategy and drive growth in a dynamic food wholesale business.
- Company: Established food wholesale company, part of a major UK group.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, 29 days holiday, pension scheme, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Opportunity to build and develop a high-performing sales team.
- Why this job: Shape the future of sales in a thriving industry and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: 6-10 years of sales leadership experience in FMCG or related sectors.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
VANRATH are delighted to be working with a well-established food wholesale and distribution business, part of a major UK group, to appoint a Head of Sales. This is a senior commercial leadership role for someone ready to own the sales strategy and drive profitable growth across all customer channels.
The Benefits
- Attractive salary package (details on application)
- 29 days holiday incl. bank holidays (pro rata)
- Company Pension Scheme
- Life Assurance cover
- Employee Discount Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
The Role
Reporting to senior management, you will set the direction of the sales function and lead the team to deliver against ambitious targets. Day to day you will:
- Shape and execute the sales strategy, identifying new markets, channels, and customer segments.
- Own annual planning, budgeting, and forecasting, keeping a close eye on market and competitor activity.
- Deliver sales, margin, and profitability targets while growing existing accounts and winning new business.
- Build lasting relationships with key customers and partners, and lead on major commercial negotiations.
- Lead, coach, and develop the team - setting clear KPIs and building a culture of accountability.
- Partner with Operations, Production, Finance, Procurement, and Marketing on pricing, promotions, and product development.
- Report on performance and manage sales budgets effectively.
The Ideal Person
Essential
- 6-10 years' sales leadership experience in food manufacturing, FMCG, foodservice, or a related sector.
- Demonstrable success in driving revenue growth and managing strategic customer relationships.
- Strong people leadership, with experience building and developing sales teams.
- Solid grounding in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning.
- First-class negotiation, communication, and commercial/financial acumen.
Desirable
- Professional sales or leadership qualifications.
Head of Sales (Food / FMCG) in Belfast employer: VANRATH
Join a leading food wholesale and distribution business that values its employees and fosters a collaborative work culture. With an attractive salary package, generous holiday allowance, and comprehensive benefits including a pension scheme and employee assistance programme, this role offers not just a job but a pathway for professional growth and development. Located within a major UK group, you will have the opportunity to shape the sales strategy and lead a dynamic team in a thriving sector, making a meaningful impact on the company's success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sales (Food / FMCG) in Belfast
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like VANRATH.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from VANRATH!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like VANRATH, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at VANRATH, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sales (Food / FMCG) in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at VANRATH, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at VANRATH.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to VANRATH. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at VANRATH. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at VANRATH
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to VANRATH’s mission.
