Job description
VANRATH are assisting in the recruitment of a Sales Manager for a well-established and growing wholesale foodservice organisation based in Newry.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly reputable business operating within the FMCG foodservice sector, with a strong presence across Northern Ireland and a clear growth strategy in place. The successful candidate will play a key leadership role in driving profitable growth and commercial performance.
The Sales Manager will lead and develop a team of Business Development Managers, taking full responsibility for sales performance, margin delivery, and commercial execution.
Salary:
Competitive salary package (DOE) + bonus + company benefits package and vehicle
Responsibilities:
- Lead, manage, and coach a team of Business Development Managers to drive profitable growth across the NI Foodservice market.
- Take full accountability for achieving sales targets, managing margins, controlling debt, and delivering commercial results.
- Support the team to exceed agreed territory sales and margin targets through effective planning and execution.
- Drive new business acquisition while developing existing accounts through range extension and cost-efficient supply solutions.
- Ensure all customer accounts operate within agreed company credit terms.
- Provide strategic direction, coaching, and performance management to maximise team capability and results.
- Manage territory costs within allocated budgets, ensuring effective time management and call planning.
- Deliver excellent customer service through strong field communication and high administrative standards.
- Gather and report competitor intelligence and relevant market information.
- Lead and collaborate with internal departments and key stakeholders to ensure aligned execution.
- Resolve conflict through motivation, negotiation, and strong leadership.
- Deliver and execute the annual Foodservice commercial plan.
- Manage projects end-to-end, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and within scope.
Ideal Person:
Criteria:
- 3+ years' experience in foodservice within a sales or commercial role, with a proven track record of delivering results.
- Experience leading, managing, and coaching a sales team.
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to manage margins, profitability, and performance.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute long-term commercial initiatives.
- Highly organised, proactive, and results-driven with a strong work ethic.
Bonus Points:
- Experience delivering large-scale commercial or business development initiatives.
- Strong project management experience.
- Experience working within a fast-paced FMCG or wholesale foodservice environment.
