Business Development Manager - B2B Food Manufacturing

• Location: UK (Travel required)
• Job Type: Full-time
• Salary: Competitive base salary plus performance-related commission/bonus

We are seeking a driven and commercially astute Business Development Manager to spearhead growth across our value-added component supply division, specialising in sachets and dip pots for a broad range of industrial and B2B food manufacturing clients. This hands-on, hunter-style role is perfect for someone who thrives on opening doors, building relationships, and converting opportunities into long-term partnerships.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Identify, target, and win new B2B accounts across the food manufacturing sector, focusing on value-added sachet and dip pot supply.
• Develop and execute a structured business development plan to grow revenue across primary and secondary channels.
• Build and maintain a robust pipeline of qualified opportunities, managing the full sales cycle from prospecting through to contract negotiation and onboarding.
• Establish and nurture strong relationships with procurement, technical, and NPD teams within target customers.
• Collaborate with internal operations, NPD, and quality teams to deliver tailored solutions that meet customer specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Provide market intelligence on customer trends, competitor activity, and new product opportunities.
• Represent the business at trade shows, industry events, and customer meetings.
• Report on pipeline activity, forecasts, and commercial performance against targets.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven track record in B2B business development or sales management within the food manufacturing or food ingredients sector.
• An established network of contacts within ready meal, salad, seafood, meat, vegetable processing, or meal kit businesses.
• Strong understanding of the technical demands of supplying into food manufacturing environments, including specifications, food safety standards, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience managing the full sales cycle, from lead generation and cold outreach through to contract closure and account growth.
• Commercially sharp, with the ability to negotiate pricing, terms, and supply agreements.
• Self-starter who works proactively and independently, comfortable operating with minimal supervision.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the confidence to engage at all levels from buyer to board.
• Willingness to travel to customer sites and industry events as required.
• Full UK driving licence.

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary plus performance-related commission/bonus.
• Opportunity to shape and grow a key commercial function within a well-established food manufacturer.
• Autonomy and ownership – this is a role where initiative is rewarded.
• Supportive team environment with direct access to senior leadership.