At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead key accounts, build relationships, and drive sustainable growth in the hospitality sector.
- Company: Wellocks, a leading UK fresh food distributor with a family-oriented culture.
- Benefits: 33 days holiday, employee discounts, volunteering day, and wellness support.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to excellence and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of hospitality while leading a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in key accounts, strong commercial acumen, and exceptional relationship skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a commercially driven, relationship-focused Head of Key Accounts to lead and shape our key accounts function at Wellocks. In this role, you will own relationships with some of the UK’s most prestigious hospitality groups, driving sustainable growth, strengthening long-term partnerships, and delivering outstanding commercial performance. You’ll lead a high-performing team while acting as a key ambassador for the Wellocks brand across the premium hospitality sector.
What You Will Do
- Own and develop relationships with key strategic customers, ensuring strong partnerships at every level
- Lead customer reviews, contract negotiations, and long-term growth planning
- Identify opportunities to increase retention, profitability, and share of wallet
- Represent Wellocks at meetings, events, and industry forums
- Lead the Key Accounts team to exceed sales, growth, and margin targets
- Develop and execute strategic account plans aligned with business objectives
- Analyse performance data and market trends to unlock growth opportunities
- Lead commercial negotiations, including contracts and rebate structures
- Lead, coach, and develop a team of Key Account Managers and a Key Account Executive
- Set clear objectives and drive a high-performance, customer-focused culture
- Support talent development, succession planning, and team capability growth
- Work closely with Sales, Purchasing, Marketing, Operations, and Finance teams
- Ensure a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints
- Collaborate on innovation, product development, and customer events
- Drive best practice in forecasting, pipeline management, and CRM usage
- Use data and insights to inform decision-making and strategic planning
What You Will Need
- Proven leadership experience in a senior key accounts or account management role within hospitality, foodservice, or FMCG
- Strong commercial acumen, with experience managing large or procurement-led accounts
- A track record of leading negotiations and building long-term strategic partnerships
- Experience leading and developing high-performing teams
- Exceptional relationship-building and influencing skills
- Highly commercial, strategic thinker with strong analytical capability
- Confident negotiator with strong stakeholder management skills
- Collaborative leader who inspires and develops others
- Resilient, adaptable, and solutions-focused
Let us tell you some benefits you would receive at Wellocks:
- 33 days holiday (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
- Generous employee discounts on all our products
- One day off per year for volunteering
- Cycle to Work Scheme with discounted bikes and cycling equipment
- Donate through your pay to a charity of your choice
- Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Employee assistance services for finances, health and wellbeing
About Us: Wellocks is one of the leading UK fresh food distributors supporting chefs with quality ingredients. We offer pre-prepared veg items to our customers as part of our service. We are part of the William Jackson Food Group, alongside Abel & Cole, Jacksons Bakery, and Belazu. Our culture is rooted in family values and a long-standing commitment to excellence.
Head of Key Accounts in Nelson employer: William Jackson Food Group
At Wellocks, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the heart of Nelson, Lancashire. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside generous benefits such as 33 days holiday and employee discounts. Join us to lead a high-performing team in shaping strategic partnerships within the prestigious hospitality sector, all while enjoying a supportive environment that values diversity and community engagement.
Contact Details:
William Jackson Food Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Key Accounts in Nelson
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like William Jackson Food Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to William Jackson Food Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to William Jackson Food Group directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Key Accounts in Nelson
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about William Jackson Food Group and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at William Jackson Food Group
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
