Overview
Our client is a leading global pet food manufacturer, is seeking a highly experienced, results-driven Regional Manager to lead their operations in the UK & Ireland. This senior role carries full P&L accountability, driving sales growth, market share, and brand presence in one of their most important regions.
The ideal candidate will combine strategic leadership with hands-on commercial expertise, building strong partnerships with retailers and distributors, while fostering a close and collaborative relationship with the European headquarters and cross-functional leaders to ensure aligned goals, knowledge sharing, and best practice implementation.
Purpose of the Role
To develop, maintain, and grow long-term relationships with key customers, distributors, and partners across the UK & Ireland. The Regional Manager will define and implement strategies that ensure brand consistency, market growth, and sustainable profitability, while aligning with their overall European business objectives. A key aspect of this role is close collaboration with the Managing Director, other country managers, and functional heads (Marketing, Supply Chain & Logistics, Finance, HR) to ensure integrated planning, operational excellence, and seamless execution across the region.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Leadership
* Develop and execute the UK & Ireland sales strategy in line with European objectives
* Achieve annual revenue, profit, and market share targets
* Lead high-level negotiations with retail chains, distributors, and other key partners
* Provide accurate sales forecasts and deliver against budget commitments
* Actively contribute to European leadership meetings, sharing local insights to shape regional strategies.
Brand & Marketing Management
* Plan and execute impactful brand and promotional campaigns, in-store and online in close collaboration with the European marketing team
* Ensure all activities comply with brand guidelines and protect intellectual property
* Use market and consumer insights to guide product positioning and marketing spend
* Work closely with the Logistics & Supply Chain departments to ensure timely, successful product launches.
Market Development & Expansion
* Identify and secure new business opportunities in the pet food sector
* Launch new products with strong retail activation and promotional support
* Represent our client at trade shows, exhibitions, and industry events
Operational Excellence & HEADQUARTER (HQ) Alignment
* Maintain close, transparent communication with HQ to ensure alignment on strategy, priorities, and performance metrics
* Monitor competitor activity and provide regular market intelligence to HQ and relevant department heads
* Drive cross-functional projects in cooperation with Marketing, Logistics & Supply Chain, and Finance to maximise efficiency and customer satisfaction
* Foster a collaborative, solution-focused working culture between the UK & Ireland, teams and headquarters, ensuring shared successes and alignment on strategic priorities
Requirements
Essential Qualifications & Skills
* 7–10 years’ sales leadership experience in the pet food industry (FMCG experience an advantage)
* Proven ability to work collaboratively with international teams and cross-functional leaders
* Proven track record in managing major retail and distribution accounts
* Strong negotiation, relationship management, and business development skills
* Analytical mindset with experience in market research and data-driven decision-making
* Self-motivated, commercially astute, and results-oriented
* Fluent in English (written and spoken); advanced MS Office skills
* Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field
* Willingness to travel regularly within the UK, Ireland, and Europe
* Full, clean UK or Irish driving licence
Key Leadership Competencies
* Strategic thinking and commercial acumen
* Drive for results and accountability
* Customer focus and relationship building
* Strong planning and prioritisation skills
* Excellent communication and influencing abilities
* Team collaboration and stakeholder engagement