National Account Manager in Ipswich

Vegware, a Novolex brand, is a trusted provider of plant-based compostable foodservice packaging. Based in Edinburgh and sold worldwide, we operate across the UK, EU and USA. Our range includes everything from hot and cold cups, lids and napkins to cutlery, tableware and takeaway packaging. Made using renewable, recycled or reclaimed materials, Vegware products are designed to be industrially composted alongside food waste. We also support customers through our Close the Loop service and award-winning environmental consultancy, helping businesses find the right routes for composting and improve packaging disposal outcomes.

Main purpose and scope of the job

Vegware product sales are largely driven by team members working with key end users in partnership with their chosen distribution partners. This role will work across the structure and engage with groups of key end users and distribution partners. The goal will be to leverage our value proposition, scale and relationships to create sales volume growth within a set of sectors which may include education, healthcare, retail foodservice, transport and many more. The purpose of this role is to manage, grow and develop sales nationally within specific key accounts or sectors, contributing to the delivery of the annual Sales Budget. The scope includes developing existing accounts by working with our distribution partners and proactively seeking new business opportunities for sales growth. It also involves working closely with the rest of the Sales Team, Commercial Team, Comms, Creative and Environmental Teams. At Vegware, we work to support our 9001 Quality & 14001 Environmental ISO standards. The ideal candidate excels at managing their sales funnel from identifying to closing prospects. You will also be responsible for determining long-term sales strategy and act as the primary contact for clients, customer adoption, and customer satisfaction. The role will require frequent travel across the UK and Ireland.

Duties and key responsibilities

• To develop and execute an account plan for all major customers that are in line with the overall sales & customer channel strategy & objectives.
• Making a significant contribution to the delivery of the overall group’s Sales Budget through delivering sales in their sectors.
• In line with our sales strategy, to develop the assigned sector by attending networking events, creating new sales pitches, developing strategic pricing and sourcing of products.
• Ability and willingness to travel to customer offices and end user sites, as required to build demand and grow sales.
• Grow sales with our existing customers through expanding their product portfolio of Vegware.
• Proactively manage leading accounts within your sectors.
• Prepare, manage and execute sector projects in line with the overall sales strategy.
• Actively seek out new major Sector business opportunities.
• Develop and maintain a full understanding of all the Vegware products and services we offer.
• Gain product feedback from customers for use in ongoing marketing activities, product research and development.
• Keep our database of customer contacts accurate and updated with details of sales activity.
• Provide training and presentations to sales teams within our major Distributors.
• Management and motivation of project teams.

General responsibilities

• Show commitment to the company values in all aspects of your role: Accountability, Authenticity, Creativity, Fun, Respect and Teamwork.
• Ensure all communications, both verbal and written, enhance the company image.
• Act at all times as an ambassador for the business.
• Adhere to all company policies that are relevant to your role.
• A commitment to health and safety whether office-based, home-based or field-based.
• A commitment to equal opportunities.
• A strong commitment to the Vegware brand.

Person specification

Skills and abilities

• You will have excellent sales skills, and a genuine passion for the environment.
• You will be a good fit with Vegware's core values.
• You will be able to deliver first class customer service and you will enjoy engaging with Vegware's customers.
• You will have good computer skills.
• You will need to be a team player - working with and supporting the rest of the sales team in Edinburgh and be able to attend quarterly sales meetings at our Head Office in Edinburgh.
• You will have the ability and drive to exceed targets.
• You will have the ability to work with and support the activities of the other teams in Vegware.
• You will be an effective time manager, able to prioritise and make the most effective use of your time.
• You will have the ability to manage and motivate others.

Experience

• You will have good direct sales experience and be able to provide exceptional customer care in a sales situation.
• You will have experience of working both independently and as part of a team.
• Some experience of line management is a plus, but not essential.

Knowledge

• You will ensure that knowledge of Vegware’s products and services are kept up to date.

Personal attributes and other requirements

• You will have a strong work ethic demonstrating loyalty and commitment to the organisation and team members.
• You will have the ability to demonstrate resilience and integrity.
• You will be inventive, resourceful and engaged in the company, and see it as a springboard for both group and personal success.
• You will be professional and highly motivated with excellent interpersonal skills.