Reed Specialist Recruitment
May 19, 2026
Full time
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.