Business Development Manager - Commercial Logistics, Leeds



At Arla, we do so much more than make some of the world's favourite dairy products. We make healthy taste delicious, mornings worth getting up for and family dinners unforgettable. Cravendale®, Anchor®, Lurpak® and Tickler® - names like these make us a vital, natural part of modern life in over 100 countries around the world. We are 4,000 UK and 19,000 global employees at the heart of it. Every single one of us plays an important role and together we build on our 10bn Euros turnover and establish our position as one of the largest dairy companies in the world.



We are currently looking for a Business Development Manager to join our Commercial Logistics team at our head office in Leeds. In this role you will be responsible for the business development function within Arla Foods Commercial Logistics and will help to attract likeminded manufacturers to the Arla logistics proposition. Complimenting our already impressive portfolio which includes Danone, Kerry Foods, Raisio (Benecol) and Bel UK. Through marketing and increasing awareness of the Arla proposition to UK food and drink manufacturers, you will help to deliver the growth ambitions of the Commercial Logistics function in line with its 2020 strategy.



Responsibilities



As Business Development Manager you will generate and maintain a strong new business pipeline. Using continual lead generation through networking events, lead generation tools and software, marketing activities, press and industry data etc. you will help to deliver the growth of new contracts in line with the Commercial Logistics and Arla Foods 2020 strategy. Identifying potential business targets, you will set up meetings between client decision makers and Arla key stakeholders, when necessary leveraging support, experience and knowledge within our business. You will plan approaches and pitches, working with your team to develop proposals around price and service that speak to the client's needs, concerns, and objectives. Attending industry events such as exhibitions and conferences, you will provide feedback and information on market trends to senior level management with a view to developing new services and revenue streams. In addition, you will create, forge and maintain strong relationships with key influencers and decision makers within the Arla business and our external strategic partners such as PCL, Bidvest and Moran.



Skills



The successful candidate will have experience and proven record of working in business development and/or a contract management at senior level with a blue chip organisation preferably within FMCG. You will have strong knowledge of the UK food industry, supply chain, transport and warehousing. With strong customer service skills you will be able to work on your own initiative as well as motivating and managing a successful team. Working to tight deadlines, you will have effective communication skills at all levels as well as strong financial acumen and attention to detail. You will also have intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Excel and previous experience of SAP would be an advantage.