Our client is a fast-growing business operating within the food and grocery sector, specialising in the development, sourcing, manufacturing and distribution of innovative food products across retail, foodservice and private label channels.The business works across three core areas:Own-brand product developmentExclusive brand partnershipsPrivate label manufacturing and contract packingWith a modern, accredited manufacturing facility and extensive capabilities across healthy grocery categories, the company provides scalable product development and packing solutions to leading retailers, wholesalers and foodservice operators.Due to continued growth, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious and commercially driven Business Development Manager to help drive the next phase of expansion.The RoleThis is a high-impact commercial position focused on generating new business opportunities across retail, foodservice and private label manufacturing.The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying and developing revenue opportunities through:Expanding existing retail relationships into new categories and buyer networksWinning new retail and foodservice accountsSecuring private label manufacturing and contract packing opportunitiesThis role is heavily focused on proactive business development, relationship building, tender management and converting opportunities into long-term commercial partnerships.This is not a traditional account management role. We are seeking a highly motivated sales professional with a strong track record of winning new business and developing strategic commercial relationships.Key ResponsibilitiesNew Business DevelopmentIdentify and secure new business opportunities across UK retail, grocery and foodservice channelsDevelop relationships with buyers, category managers and innovation teamsGenerate and manage a pipeline of new prospects through networking, outreach and market researchExplore new category opportunities within existing retail groupsPrivate Label & Contract ManufacturingLead the acquisition of private label and contract packing projectsIdentify and respond to retailer and foodservice tendersSecure development briefs for new product launchesPromote end-to-end capabilities including sourcing, product development, packaging and manufacturingCommercial StrategyCollaborate with NPD, operations and supply chain teams to deliver commercially viable solutionsMaintain a robust sales pipeline using CRM systemsDeliver accurate forecasting, pipeline management and opportunity reportingMonitor market trends, retailer activity and emerging categoriesCustomer DevelopmentGrow existing customer relationships into new categories and product areasDevelop strategic partnerships with retailers, wholesalers, distributors and foodservice operatorsRepresent the business at trade shows, customer meetings and industry eventsEssential Experience37 years' experience within FMCG sales or business developmentProven success in winning new business across grocery retail, foodservice or private label channelsStrong understanding of UK retail structures and buying functionsExperience working with major retailers or foodservice groupsDemonstrable track record in prospecting and pipeline generationContactNicky StruttWHJS1_NI