Key Account Manager

Location: Flitwick

Key Account Manager – Toy Industry

Location:

Flitwick

Type:
Full-Time

About the Role

We are looking for a commercially driven and ambitious Key Account Manager to join our dynamic toy client. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a portfolio of well-loved brands and a constant pipeline of innovation in a highly seasonal and fast-moving category.

You’ll take ownership of a portfolio of customer accounts while supporting larger, strategic retail partners. This role is ideal for someone ready to step up from a Sales Executive position and develop towards a National Account Manager role within a fun, competitive, and collaborative environment.

Role Purpose

The Key Account Manager is responsible for delivering profitable growth across a portfolio of customer accounts within the toy and retail sector. You will own Tier 3 and selected Tier 2 accounts while supporting Tier 1 national retailers, combining independent account management with exposure to complex commercial negotiations.

Role Scope & Accountability

Own a portfolio of independent and mid-tier retail accounts (including toy specialists, online retailers, and grocers)

Support major national retailers as part of a wider account team

Deliver revenue and Direct Gross Profit (DGP) targets

Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Demand Planning, Marketing, Product Development, and Finance

* Contribute to successful product launches and seasonal campaigns

Core Responsibilities

1. Account Strategy & Pre-Season Planning

Build and deliver seasonal account plans aligned to key toy industry peaks (e.g. Christmas, Easter)

Support planning for major retail accounts with insight and analysis

Develop compelling product ranges and promotions tailored to each customer

Understand market trends, competitor activity, and consumer demand

2. Seasonal Preview & Commercial Negotiation

Lead line reviews and range presentations for independent and mid-tier customers

Support or co-lead presentations for major retail accounts

Negotiate pricing, promotions, and space with clear commercial rationale

Manage customer expectations around new product launches and availability

3. Commitment & Forecast Management

Secure seasonal commitments aligned to critical trading periods

Maintain accurate forecasts, especially around peak seasons

Work closely with Demand Planning to ensure stock availability

Proactively manage risks relating to supply or demand fluctuations

4. In-Season Execution & Performance Management

Monitor sales performance vs forecast during peak trading periods

Ensure strong on-shelf availability and online execution

Manage promotions and react quickly to in-season trends

Maintain clear and proactive communication with customers

5. Post-Season Review & Continuous Improvement

Lead post-season performance reviews with customers

Analyse sell-through, promotions, and product success

Capture insights to improve future ranges and forecasts

What We’re Looking For

Skills & Competencies

Commercial & Analytical Thinking

* Strong understanding of retail dynamics and margin drivers

* Ability to analyse sales data and translate into action

Executional Excellence

* Highly organised with strong attention to detail

* Ability to manage multiple customers during peak seasons

Relationship Management

* Confident communicator with the ability to influence buyers

* Strong relationship-building skills across internal and external stakeholders

Experience & Capability

* Experience in FMCG, toys, consumer goods, or retail account management

* Proven progression from Sales Executive or similar role

* Experience working with retailers (e.g. grocers, online, or specialists)

* Strong commercial acumen and numerical skills

* Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word

* Full UK driving licence

Personal Attributes

* Passion for consumer products and the toy industry

* Energetic, proactive, and solutions-focused

* Thrives in a seasonal, deadline-driven environment

* Eager to develop into a National Account Manager

Development Path

This role provides a clear pathway into a National Account Manager position, offering:

* Ownership of customer relationships

* Exposure to major retail accounts

* Experience in complex negotiations and product launches

Why Join The Company?

* Work with exciting, innovative toy brands

* Be part of a fun, fast-paced, and collaborative team

* Play a key role in bringing products to market during peak seasons

* Excellent career progression opportunities

Quality Personnel acting as an Employment Agency & Business (rated as one of the top 3 Agencies in Milton Keynes for the 6th year running!).

Please note due to the volume of applications we receive you will only be contacted if we are progressing your application