Business Development Manager - Drinks (On Trade)

About the role

An independent British cider producer, represented by Advocate Group, is looking for a field-based Business Development Manager in the West Midlands. The business makes traditionally crafted ciders from 100% fresh-pressed English cider apples sourced from local orchards. The role focuses on winning new business, increasing distribution and building long-term relationships with existing customers across the On Trade.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and secure new business opportunities across the On Trade, targeting pubs, bars, restaurants, wholesalers and hospitality businesses.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing customers and increase their sales, distribution and product range.
• Develop and manage a sales pipeline, prospecting for new customers and converting opportunities into long-term accounts.
• Increase the visibility of the company's portfolio through new listings, ranging and commercial activity.
• Negotiate new business and manage customer relationships to ensure retention and ongoing account development.
• Visit customers and prospects regularly, monitor competitors and market trends, and use this insight to support the sales strategy.
• Maintain accurate customer and sales data in the CRM system and take ownership of agreed sales targets and KPIs.

Required profile

• Proven sales experience in the drinks, FMCG, hospitality or On Trade sector.
• Track record of winning new business and developing existing accounts.
• Strong understanding of the On Trade market and of working with pubs, bars, restaurants and wholesalers.
• Excellent relationship-building and negotiation skills, confident engaging customers at all levels.
• Comfortable working autonomously in a field-based role and with regular travel across the territory.

Required skills

• CRM systems
• Microsoft Office
• Other basic business applications

What we offer

• Market-related salary
• Car allowance
• Bonus