Head of Sales; Food​/FMCG

VANRATH are delighted to be working with a well-established food wholesale and distribution business, part of a major UK group, to appoint a Head of Sales. This is a senior commercial leadership role for someone ready to own the sales strategy and drive profitable growth across all customer channels.

• Attractive salary package (details on application)
• 29 days holiday incl. bank holidays (pro rata)
• Company Pension Scheme
• Life Assurance cover
• Employee Discount Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme

Reporting to senior management, you will set the direction of the sales function and lead the team to deliver against ambitious targets. Day to day you will:

• Shape and execute the sales strategy, identifying new markets, channels, and customer segments.
• Own annual planning, budgeting, and forecasting, keeping a close eye on market and competitor activity.
• Deliver sales, margin, and profitability targets while growing existing accounts and winning new business.
• Build lasting relationships with key customers and partners, and lead on major commercial negotiations.
• Lead, coach, and develop the team - setting clear KPIs and building a culture of accountability.
• Partner with Operations, Production, Finance, Procurement, and Marketing on pricing, promotions, and product development.
• Report on performance and manage sales budgets effectively.

Essential

• 6-10 years' sales leadership experience in food manufacturing, FMCG, food service, or a related sector.
• Demonstrable success in driving revenue growth and managing strategic customer relationships.
• Strong people leadership, with experience building and developing sales teams.
• Solid grounding in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning.
• First-class negotiation, communication, and commercial/financial acumen.

Desirable

• Professional sales or leadership qualifications.