National Account Manager (Food Industry)

About the Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a National Account Manager to join our team and play a pivotal role in creating and executing a growth sales strategy.

In this newly created role, the National Account Manager will drive profitable sales growth by managing and growing customer accounts and generating new leads. You will build meaningful customer relationships providing expert support and knowledge to deliver tailored solutions that meet customer requirements.

Ideally, you will be based in the Midlands or South East region, with the expectation of being onsite in Kent at least once per month, in addition to attending regular meetings with suppliers and customers within the UK.

About Us

At Karimix we unlock the fusion and eclectic flavours of Asia and beyond, with a wide range of award-winning paste, cooking sauces, marinades and chutneys. Karimix is a BRCGS A grade accredited food manufacturer which takes pride in using only the finest ingredients to produce products that always deliver on flavour. Karimix is part of the Olidor Group which also includes Brusco Food Group, a leading supplier of the finest quality ingredients and The Original Baker, a leading manufacturer of premium sweet and savoury baked products.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and execute a commercial strategy to drive sales growth.
• Manage and grow a portfolio of existing and new customers to support business growth.
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships through regular communication and visits to understand their needs and identify potential opportunities.
• Collaborate with the NPD chef to deliver NPD projects that drive sales growth.
• Ensure timely response to inbound enquiries and quote follow-ups.
• Convert inbound enquiries into new accounts and profitable sales.
• Analyse sales data and trends to identify opportunities for growth.
• Lead contract negotiations, ensuring accurate terms are agreed.
• Determine margins, propose price reviews and set sample and transport charges.
• Address any customer concerns or issued efficiently, liaising with the relevant departments as needed.
• Line manage the Marketing and Customer Service Administrator.
• Work closely with colleagues across functions to build specialist knowledge about our product range and processes.
• Share product knowledge and market insights with customers to grow profitable sales through upselling.
• Identify new prospects through industry research and event participation, following up on new leads.
• Participate in sales meetings, sharing relevant customer insights, trends and opportunities with the wider team.
• Propose business, system, or process improvements as needed.

Jobholder’s Competencies, Skills and Experience

• Minimum of 3 years in a National Account Manager position or equivalent within the food industry is essential.
• Proven track record of delivering sales including conversion, upselling and account growth.
• Commercial acumen with a strategic approach to Sales.
• Strong influencing, negotiating, presenting and decision making skills.
• Dedication to excellent customer service.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships.
• Excellent verbal, listening and written communication skills.
• Numerate and Literate with the ability to analyse data and make data driven decisions.
• Flexible about adopting a hands-on approach as needed.
• IT literate, including MS Office.
• Proactive with a problem-solving approach.
• Well-organised with the ability to work at pace and meet multiple deadlines.
• High levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Collaborative and Inclusive approach.

Salary: c.£50,000 per annum (dependant on experience and skills).

Working Arrangements: Full-time, Monday to Friday. This is a remote position, with the expectation of being onsite in Kent at least once per month, initially more frequently to support training. You will also be required to attend regular meetings with suppliers and customers within the UK.