Seymour John is delighted to be partnering exclusively with David Austin Roses in the appointment of a Senior Commercial Partnerships Manager.
This is a retained search assignment and represents a rare opportunity to join one of Britain's most admired heritage brands, helping shape the future of its international Cut Roses business.
For over sixty years, David Austin Roses has been globally recognised for breeding some of the world's most celebrated roses. Alongside its renowned Garden Roses business sits a growing international Cut Roses division, built around a carefully selected network of licensed growers supplying premium floral markets worldwide.
As the business enters its next phase of development, we are seeking a commercially minded partnership leader to strengthen these strategically important relationships and help drive sustainable long-term growth.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Company Director, you will take ownership of David Austin's international grower and licensing partnerships across Ecuador, Colombia, Kenya and other key global markets.
This is not a traditional sales role.
Instead, it combines commercial partnership management, international relationship leadership, market insight and brand stewardship within a premium global business.
You'll work closely with senior stakeholders across Commercial, Marketing and Breeding functions, helping to ensure the David Austin brand continues to be represented at the highest possible standard around the world.
Key responsibilities include:
* Leading strategic relationships across the international grower network
* Managing pricing discussions, portfolio performance and commercial planning
* Driving greater visibility around royalties, variety performance and growth opportunities
* Supporting new variety launches and market introductions
* Gathering commercial and market insight to influence future decisions
* Representing David Austin Roses at international trade events and industry exhibitions
About You
We're interested in speaking with commercially credible individuals who thrive in relationship-led environments.
You may already be working within:
* Horticulture or floriculture
* Premium FMCG
* Luxury goods
* Wine & Spirits
* International distribution
* Branded licensing
* Specialist B2B partnership environments
You'll bring experience managing strategically important commercial relationships and possess the confidence to operate across international markets and cultures.
Most importantly, you'll understand how to balance commercial performance with long-term brand value.
Why David Austin Roses?
This opportunity offers far more than a traditional commercial management position.
You'll join a globally recognised, family-owned business where quality, reputation and long-term relationships sit at the heart of every decision.
Highlights include:
* Working directly with one of the world's most respected horticultural brands
* International travel across Latin America, Africa, Europe and the USA
* Genuine influence and visibility within the business
* Ownership of a focused, high-value commercial portfolio
* Hybrid working and an exceptional Shropshire countryside location
* A collaborative, values-led culture built around craftsmanship, integrity and long-term thinking
Package
* £50,000 - £65,000 depending upon experience
* Hybrid working (4 days office / 1 day remote)
* 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
* Pension contributions
* Employee discounts
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Learning & Development opportunities
* International travel opportunities
Apply
Seymour John has been exclusively retained by David Austin Roses to manage this appointment.
For a confidential discussion regarding the opportunity, please contact:
Lydia Johnson
Principal Consultant | Seymour John
📞 07597 561036
📧
All direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to Seymour John for consideration as part of the retained recruitment process.