Key Account Manager
The Role
As a Key Account Manager within the commercial team, you will contribute to the development and execution of a robust sales plan designed to support the organisation’s overall growth strategy.
You will be responsible for achieving sales, margin, and category growth targets through optimisation of current listings and new product development.
You will build and maintain collaborative partnerships with key customers.
You will make a significant contribution to day-to-day operational activities to meet customer requirements and continually improve customer value and commitment.
As Key Account Manager, you will reflect the organisation’s values around quality, legality, and authenticity, giving customers the opportunity to achieve outstanding results through a strong passion for people and food. The organisation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Duties
* Develop and execute customer account plans to drive the overall company strategic growth plan.
* Develop and negotiate annual Joint Business Plans (JBP) and Long-Term Agreements (LTA) with key customers.
* Provide solutions based on customer needs, aligned with internal business objectives.
* Build and maintain effective business relationships at all organisational levels.
* Contribute to short, medium, and long-term forecast planning in line with growth plans.
* Report on sales performance, profitability, and account initiatives on a weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis.
* Manage the costs associated with servicing each key account.
* Manage limited edition product cycles effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
* Gather, analyse, and provide category insights through consultation with customers and key trade contacts.
* Provide product guidance and negotiate pricing and delivery requirements, considering commercial impact.
* Assist with identifying tender opportunities and preparing tender responses when required.
* Liaise regularly with customers to ensure satisfaction with products and service.
* Contribute to new product development, customer care, and quality initiatives through customer feedback.
* Update and maintain the CRM database with details of existing and potential customers.
* Liaise with internal teams regarding orders, production scheduling, product development, quality control, deliveries, and customer factory visits.
* Represent the organisation at relevant trade shows and exhibitions as required.
* Carry out any other reasonable duties as assigned by the line manager.
Required Skills and Competencies
* Third-level qualification in a business-related discipline.
* 2–5 years’ proven experience as a Key Account Manager within FMCG.
* Experience in sales and delivering customer-focused solutions.
* Strong customer focus with the ability to build trust-based relationships.
* Highly energetic and enthusiastic with a positive “can-do” attitude.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across all organisational levels.
* Strong problem-solving and negotiation abilities.
* Excellent planning and organisational skills.
* Sound commercial awareness and business acumen.
* Experience preparing customer proposals.
* Previous experience within chilled foods (desirable).