The Role
Iberica Food is a fast-growing importer and distributor of authentic Spanish and Mediterranean food in the UK. We work with over 50 family-run suppliers and sell through wholesale, retail, and online channels.
We are seeking a Commercial & Sales Manager to take ownership of our B2B sales strategy while also acting as a senior leader who can step in to manage the business when required. This is a senior role with responsibility for sales, commercial performance, and cross-department support — suitable only for candidates with proven experience in the food industry managing key accounts and leading commercial initiatives.
You will drive wholesale sales development, oversee marketing, lead the sales team, and provide leadership support across departments. In the absence of senior management, you will act as Deputy General Manager, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and business continuity.
This role reports directly to the Director and requires regular performance reporting to the senior management team.
Key Responsibilities
Sales & Business Development
* Lead the B2B sales strategy and team, ensuring profitable growth across wholesale and distribution.
* Oversee and support the management of key food industry accounts, while empowering sales executives to build strong long-term client relationships.
* Set pricing, contracts, and margin frameworks in collaboration with the Director; ensure consistency across accounts.
* Drive new market opportunities and provide the team with structured pipelines and sales processes.
Marketing & Brand Development
* Lead traditional marketing activities: trade shows, printed materials, in-store promotions.
* Oversee digital marketing initiatives (SEO, paid ads, social media, email campaigns).
* Align all marketing with sales objectives to generate leads and build brand visibility.
Commercial Oversight
* Monitor performance across wholesale, marketplaces, and online sales.
* Analyse commercial data and ensure KPIs are met (margins, sales growth, market targets).
* Lead cost-optimisation projects in delivery, purchasing, and supplier negotiations.
* Provide regular commercial and sales performance reporting to the Director and senior management team.
Leadership & Deputy Management
* Act as second-in-command when the Head of Operations or Director are unavailable.
* Mentor and guide the sales, marketing, and customer service teams.
* Support operational areas (warehouse, logistics) when business decisions are needed.
Customer Relationship Support
* Collaborate with the Head of Operations to ensure customer issues and claims are resolved effectively.
* Maintain strong client communication during disputes or operational issues, safeguarding long-term relationships.
What's on Offer
* Salary: £35,000 – £40,000 base (depending on experience)
* Performance Bonus: Up to 15% of base salary, linked to sales growth, KPIs, productivity per employee, and EBITDA improvement
* Contract: Full-time, permanent
* Holidays: 20 days + 8 bank holidays
* Benefits:
* Training and development budget
* Staff discount, pension, free parking
* Staff tastings and team meals
* Start Date: ASAP
* Progression Path: Clear route to Head of Commercial / Deputy General Manager within 18–24 months, based on performance and company growth
About You
This is a senior role requiring proven industry experience. Please only apply if you meet the following:
* Significant experience in the food/FMCG industry managing wholesale accounts (essential).
* Proven track record of delivering sales growth and profitability.
* Strong commercial knowledge, including pricing, margin negotiation, and supplier management.
* Experience leading or mentoring a sales team, with ability to make operational decisions.
* Knowledge of both traditional marketing (trade shows, promotions) and digital marketing (SEO, paid ads, social campaigns).
* Willingness to travel nationally to meet key clients, attend trade shows, and support business development.
* Confident communicator and negotiator, able to represent the company at senior level.
* Hands-on, flexible, and motivated to thrive in a growing SME environment.
* Driving licence and own transport required.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £35,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
* Henfield BN5 9BJ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
* food/FMCG industry (wholesale/distribution): 3 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person