Location: Sheffield

£55,000 – £60,000 Per Annum

Permanent

 

Overview:

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious and commercially minded Trading Manager to lead sales growth, enhance profitability, and expand customer reach within the FMCG Sector.

This is a senior, hands-on role ideal for a results-driven professional with a strong network in the industry and a proven track record of delivering profitable growth. The successful candidate will play a key part in shaping commercial strategy, driving market expansion, and optimising trading performance.

 

Key Responsibilities:

 

Sales Growth & Customer Development:

• Drive sales performance and margin growth across existing and new customers.
• Identify and secure new business opportunities across wholesale, retail, and independent trade sectors.
• Leverage existing industry relationships to open new trading channels and strengthen market presence.
• Maintain strong customer relationships through regular meetings, calls, and trade events.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and develop long-term partnerships built on trust and value.
• Manage commercial risks while pursuing profitable growth opportunities.
• Oversee P&L performance and margin improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate on marketing and promotional planning to support category sales initiatives.

 

Trading & Profitability:

• Take full ownership of product pricing, margin analysis, and category profitability.
• Negotiate effectively with suppliers and customers to maximise gross profit return.
• Review trading performance and implement actions to increase turnover and profitability.
• Identify new product lines or suppliers aligned with business goals and manage product lifecycle changes.
• Work closely with operations and finance teams to ensure pricing accuracy, stock availability, and trading efficiency.

 

Strategic & Field Responsibilities:

• Spend 2–3 days per week in the field visiting key customers and prospects.
• Attend customer and supplier meetings to strengthen relationships and uncover new opportunities.
• Provide market intelligence, competitor insights, and customer feedback to senior management.
• Support and mentor sales colleagues to achieve shared growth objectives.

 

Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in a trading, business development, or commercial sales management role within FMCG, wholesale, soft drinks, or grocery sectors.
• Demonstrable record of sales growth and GP delivery.
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Well-connected within the industry, with an established professional network.
• Strong analytical and commercial acumen, capable of managing P&L and margin performance.
• Collaborative approach, working effectively with Finance, Operations, and Logistics teams.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and relevant business systems.
• Full UK driving licence with flexibility to travel 2–3 days per week.

 

Personal Attributes:

• Entrepreneurial and proactive mindset with a focus on achieving results.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach.
• Professional credibility and integrity.
• Strong team player who promotes collaboration and shared success.

 

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Sales revenue and gross profit growth.
• Number of new customers acquired.
• Customer retention and satisfaction metrics.
• Contribution to company profitability and trading efficiency.
• Achievement of personal and departmental targets.

 

Qualifications & Experience:

• Degree in Business or related field (desirable).
• Several years of experience in sales, purchasing, or business management.
• Strong understanding of trading principles and market dynamics.

 

Desired Skills:

• Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret data and identify market trends.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication across all levels.
• Strategic Planning: Capability to develop and implement commercial strategies.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to respond to changing market and business needs.