Head of Field Sales - Independents

Location - South Home Counties HQ, 1 / 2 days PW

**Key Experience - successful candidates must demonstrate the leading of a field sales (and ideally telesales) team that has sold into independent retailers / restaurants / pubs etc. Ideally within food but other product areas could be considered**

The Opportunity

Our client is a leading premium food distributor, supplying high-quality branded and own-label products to retail, wholesale and foodservice customers across the UK. Built on strong supplier partnerships, exceptional service and a reputation for quality, the business is entering an exciting phase of growth and is seeking an ambitious sales leader to help shape its next chapter.

The Role

Reporting to the Managing Director, you will lead the commercial strategy and performance of the business, driving sustainable growth across key accounts and independent sales channels.

This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for sales strategy, customer development, pricing, margin management and team performance. You'll play a key role in shaping business direction while ensuring commercial targets are delivered.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the commercial strategy to drive revenue, profit and market growth.
• Lead and develop high-performing Key Account and Independent Sales teams.
• Strengthen existing customer relationships and identify new growth opportunities.
• Drive pricing, margin and commercial performance across the business.
• Deliver accurate forecasting, reporting and commercial insight to the leadership team.
• Collaborate closely with Operations, Finance, Marketing and Supply Chain to achieve business objectives.

About You

• Proven commercial leadership experience within food, foodservice or FMCG with experience in the independent / wholesale space
• Strong track record of delivering profitable sales growth and margin improvement.
• Experience managing key accounts and field-based sales teams.
• Strong commercial, financial and negotiation skills.
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• A strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a passion for developing people.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing business with ambitious plans, a strong market reputation and the autonomy to make a significant commercial impact.

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