National Account Manager- South East

The Company

My client is one of the UK's leading manufacturers, importers and distributors of both OEM and branded gift products, who have experienced significant growth over the last 3 years where the turnover has more than quadrupled in value. In their quest for continued managed growth there is now an exciting opportunity for an experienced National Account Manager to join their high-performing team with direct responsibility for a Top 4 Grocery account, as well as a portfolio of high street retailers. The company is a creative and design led business offering a diverse collection of branded and OEM products both into the UK market, and also to many other territories around the world.

The Role

As a National Account Manager you will report directly to the Sales Director. You will be responsible for the organic growth of your accounts and be continually looking for new ways to develop and generate business. This role will require you to be in the office in the South at least 1-2 days per week allowing you to work directly with the in-house NPD and design teams. The rest of your time will be spent visiting customers and growing your own individual accounts.

Key Responsibilities

• Accountability for delivering targets on profit and turnover.
• Responsibility for managing the accounts on a daily basis, with support and involvement from others departments as necessary. Forecast business in line with other divisional requirements.
• Responsible for regular contact with the customers to maximise the effectiveness of account penetration to maintain and develop customer relationships.
• Promote the company image, products and strategies in a positive manner.
• Negotiate with all existing and prospective customers to ensure the selling price gives the best possible return for the company. 

The candidate

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who has an entrepreneurial attitude to assist in producing world class product ranges and contribute to the strategic direction and development of the business. The right candidate will ideally have 3-4 years sales experience from a non-food FMCG background, preferably from within the Gift sector but other industry experience would be considered. You will also have current responsibility for a Top 4 Grocery account. The right candidate must be able to work in an autonomous role with the ability to develop solutions.  

Essential skills for this position include: Negotiation skills Results orientated Strong communication Influencer Presentation skills Relationship management Innovative / creative