Job Description:

Sales Manager

We have an exceptional opportunity for a Sales Manager to join one of the UK’s leading ingredients specialists, based in the Lincolnshire area. Our client has a truly global presence, working in partnership with trusted growers and producers worldwide to deliver reliable supply solutions and innovative product development to food manufacturers across the UK, Europe, and international markets. With an established international footprint spanning dedicated teams in the UK and Asia, alongside exclusive supply partnerships across the globe, the company is recognised for delivering turnkey ingredient solutions and providing class-leading service to both customers and suppliers.

Main responsibilities for the successful Sales Manager: 

As a Sales Manager, you will be responsible for leading and developing a high-performing sales team, driving commercial growth, and managing key customer relationships across retail and FMCG sectors. Reporting to the Sales Director, you will oversee the full sales cycle, deliver strategic sales plans, and ensure continued business growth through new opportunities and strong account management.

• Build, manage, and strengthen long-term relationships with existing and prospective customers.
• Develop and implement strategic sales plans to grow business opportunities across food manufacturing, retail, wholesale, and FMCG sectors.
• Identify, target, and secure new business opportunities for ingredients, snacks, and value-added food solutions within existing and emerging markets.
• Manage the full sales cycle, including prospecting, customer presentations, pricing negotiations, contract management, and ongoing account development.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Sales Executives, driving performance, accountability, and achievement of sales targets.
• Work closely with sourcing, supply chain, technical, and operations teams to deliver tailored customer solutions and maintain exceptional service standards.
• Analyse market trends, competitor activity, customer insights, and sales performance data to identify commercial opportunities and support strategic growth initiatives.
• Collaborate with customers on product innovation, category development, and new product launches to support long-term partnerships and revenue growth.
• Prepare and present sales forecasts, pipeline analysis, budgets, and commercial performance reports to senior management.
• Represent the business at customer meetings, trade exhibitions, and industry networking events to strengthen brand presence and generate new opportunities.
• Drive continuous improvement within the sales function, identifying efficiencies, improving processes, and supporting overall business objectives.
• Ensure all sales activities are conducted in line with company standards, food safety requirements, compliance expectations, and commercial objectives

Main requirement for the successful Sales Manager:

• Proven experience in a Sales Manager, Business Development, or Account Management role within food ingredients, FMCG, food manufacturing, or a related sector.
• Demonstrated experience leading, motivating, and developing high-performing sales teams.
• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to identify growth opportunities and build long-term customer partnerships.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, influencing, and presentation skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Results-driven and proactive mindset with a strong ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced commercial environment.
• Experience managing key accounts, developing strategic sales plans, and delivering against revenue and margin targets.
• Good understanding of food supply chains, ingredients, manufacturing processes, and market trends would be advantageous.
• Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to make commercially focused decisions.
• Proficient in CRM systems, sales reporting, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Willingness to travel for customer meetings, site visits, trade shows, and industry events where required.

What we offer in return to the successful Sales Manager:

• Monday to Friday ( on site based)
• Competitive salary in line with experience.
• Pension/ 20 days holiday entitlement + Bank Holidays
• Great company to work for!

If you're looking for a fulfilling role where you can make a real impact and be part of an outstanding team, this is the perfect opportunity for you! For more information, please don't hesitate to contact us, we'd love to hear from you!

Paradigm Employment Services Ltd is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.