UK Market Entry & Sales Lead Apparel Manufacturing (Fixed-Term, KPI-Driven) Location London (with national travel as required) Contract Type Full-time role This is a delivery-focused role with defined commercial targets About the Role We are seeking a high-performing, commercially aggressive Market Entry & Sales Lead to drive the successful entry of Our Client, a large-scale Chinese apparel manufacturer, into the UK fashion and retail market. This role is not advisory or exploratory. It is a results-driven sales and business development position, accountable for generating qualified leads, securing meetings, progressing negotiations, and closing UK manufacturing contracts with fashion brands, private-label operators, and major retailers. The successful candidate will act as a commercial and technical bridge between UK brands/retailers and Our Client translating UK market expectations, quality standards, compliance requirements, and commercial realities into clear, actionable guidance. Core Objectives (Non-Negotiable) Secure new UK manufacturing contracts within the project timeframe Establish a repeatable outbound sales pipeline (email, phone, introductions) Position Our Client as a credible, UK-standard manufacturer, not just a low-cost supplier Key Responsibilities 1. Sales & Market Penetration (Primary Focus) Proactively identify and target UK fashion brands, retailers, sourcing offices, buying teams, and private-label operators Execute high-volume, intelligent outbound activity, including: Cold emailing Cold calling Direct LinkedIn outreach Warm introductions where possible Book and lead commercial meetings with decision-makers (Buying Directors, Heads of Sourcing, Production Managers) Confidently break the ice with new prospects using creative, non-generic sales techniques Drive opportunities from first contact through to signed manufacturing agreements 2. KPI & Performance Accountability This role will be measured against clear KPIs, including (but not limited to): Number of qualified UK leads generated Number of first meetings secured Number of active commercial opportunities Number of samples requested and progressed Number of contracts signed / revenue secured Regular reporting against these KPIs is required. 3. Technical & Quality Translation (Critical Requirement) Act as a translator between UK quality expectations and Our Client Assess samples against UK retailer standards (construction, fit, finish, consistency) Provide clear, structured, and practical feedback to factory owners and technicians on: Fabric quality Stitching and construction Tolerances and sizing Finishing and presentation Guide Our Client on how to improve samples quickly to meet UK buyer expectations Ensure Our Clients offering aligns with UK compliance, QA, and audit expectations 4. Strategic Market Intelligence Understand and articulate: UK sourcing models Cost sensitivities vs quality expectations Competitive manufacturing landscapes Provide ongoing insights to inform Our Clients UK market strategy Candidate Profile This role is suited to someone who thrives under pressure and is commercially relentless. Essential Experience Proven background in UK apparel manufacturing, sourcing, or B2B sales Demonstrable success in new business development within fashion or retail Experience selling manufacturing services to UK brands or retailers Strong understanding of UK quality control and production standards Comfortable with cold outreach and high-volume contact activity Highly Desirable Existing UK industry contacts (brands, retailers, agents, sourcing teams) Experience dealing with major UK retailers (e.g. high-street or supermarket fashion) Personal Attributes Required Commercially sharp, confident, and persuasive Comfortable with rejection and persistent follow-up Structured, organised, and outcome-focused Able to operate independently with minimal hand-holding Contract Terms Fixed-term, project-based engagement Remuneration aligned to experience and delivery against KPIs Flexible working, with travel as required Application Process Applicants must submit: CV highlighting relevant sales and sourcing experience A brief cover letter outlining: How they would approach UK market entry How they generate new business in apparel manufacturing Their experience bridging UK standards with overseas production