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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth by securing new business and building strong customer relationships.
- Company: Join West Country Milk, a leading supplier committed to quality and local farmers.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, company car, and pension.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact in the foodservice industry.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in business development and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career growth and travel across the region.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
About Us
West Country Milk is a leading regional supplier of dairy and foodservice products, committed to quality, outstanding customer service, and supporting local farmers. We work closely with hospitality, catering and retail customers across the region, providing reliable delivery, competitive pricing and a tailored service that helps our clients thrive.
The Role
We are looking for a high‑energy, self‑motivated Business Development Manager to drive growth across the UK. This is a key commercial role focused on generating new business, strengthening customer relationships, and identifying opportunities to expand our footprint in the market. You will represent West Country Milk with professionalism, enthusiasm and a solutions‑led mindset — qualities that we have historically prioritised when hiring for this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify, target and secure new business opportunities across hospitality, catering, retail and other relevant sectors.
- Manage the full sales cycle: prospecting, calling, meetings, proposals and closing.
- Build strong, long‑term relationships with new and existing customers.
- Maintain a healthy sales pipeline and consistently achieve revenue and activity targets.
- Conduct site visits and customer meetings to understand operational needs.
- Work collaboratively with internal teams (operations, customer service, management) to ensure smooth onboarding and exceptional service delivery.
- Monitor market trends, competitor activity and customer needs to identify strategic opportunities.
- Produce regular sales reports, forecasts and performance updates.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- When not travelling, must work from Exeter head office base, this is not a remote working role.
- Proven experience in business development, field sales, or account management.
- Strong communication skills — confident, articulate, and persuasive.
- High level of energy and drive (this has historically been critical to success in the BDM role).
- Ability to manage a fast‑moving sales pipeline and work independently.
- Excellent organisation, planning and follow‑through.
- A proactive approach to identifying and winning new business.
- Excellent data analysis skills, likely with an advanced knowledge of Excel.
Desirable
- Experience in foodservice, FMCG, distribution or related sectors.
- Knowledge of hospitality, retail and catering markets.
- Experience presenting commercial proposals and negotiating pricing.
Personal Attributes
- Self‑starter with a positive, resilient attitude.
- Exceptionally customer‑focused.
- Confident in representing the company externally.
- Strong problem‑solver with a solutions‑driven mindset.
- Professional but personable — someone who can build rapport quickly.
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive basic salary
- Performance‑related bonus structure
- Company car or car allowance
- Laptop & phone
- Company pension
- 6‑month probation period
Location
Exeter‑based, with regular travel across the region to meet customers.
Business Development Manager in Exeter employer: West Country Milk
Contact Detail:
West Country Milk Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, trade shows, and local meet-ups to connect with potential clients and other professionals. Remember, it’s all about building relationships that can lead to new business opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive in your outreach. Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you; pick up the phone, send emails, and schedule meetings with potential clients. Show them your enthusiasm and solutions-led mindset right from the start!
✨Tip Number 3
Keep your sales pipeline healthy by regularly reviewing and updating your prospects. Use tools to track your progress and ensure you’re following up on leads consistently. This will help you stay organised and hit those revenue targets.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to leverage our website for job applications! It’s a great way to showcase your skills and experience directly to us at West Country Milk. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to apply through our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager in Exeter
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 the opportunity to drive growth and build relationships in the business development space.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in business development and sales. We love seeing how your skills align with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for West Country Milk. Use it to explain how your background and skills can help us thrive in the market. Keep it professional but let your personality shine!
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 keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Country Milk
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the hospitality, catering, and retail sectors. Understand current trends, challenges, and opportunities in these markets. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're proactive and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Sales Skills
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully identified and secured new business opportunities. Be ready to discuss your approach to managing the sales cycle, from prospecting to closing deals. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to drive growth.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Use your strong communication skills to engage them in conversation. Show enthusiasm for the role and the company, and don’t hesitate to share your passion for supporting local farmers and delivering exceptional customer service.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the company's future plans, how they measure success in this role, or what challenges they foresee in the market. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
