Head of Sales – UK (FMCG)

 UK-based (flexible / hybrid, East London hub)

 £120,000 base + uncapped commission + benefits

The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has arisen with a well-established and internationally recognised consumer goods business, part of a global group with a strong heritage in personal care and cosmetics.

The UK arm is entering a new phase of growth and transformation, and as part of a wider leadership evolution, the business is seeking a Head of Sales to take full ownership of the UK commercial function.

This is a high-impact role, leading an experienced team and shaping the commercial strategy across major retail and wholesale channels. The successful individual will play a pivotal role in driving revenue growth, strengthening key partnerships, and delivering best-in-class commercial execution.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will be responsible for leading the UK sales operation, managing a team of experienced Sales Managers, and delivering sustainable growth across all key accounts.

You will combine strategic leadership with hands-on commercial delivery, working closely with retail partners and internal stakeholders to optimise performance, profitability, and market presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Team Management

• Commercial Strategy

• • Lead, coach, and develop a team of 4 experienced Sales Managers
  • Foster a high-performance, accountable, and collaborative sales culture
  • Set clear objectives, KPIs, and development plans

• Key Account Management

• • Develop and execute the UK sales strategy aligned with global objectives
  • Identify new growth opportunities across retail, wholesale, and emerging channels
  • Build and maintain long-term, strategic customer partnerships

• Financial Ownership

• • Manage and develop relationships with major UK supermarkets and wholesale groups
  • Lead high-level negotiations with key stakeholders
  • Ensure the successful delivery of joint business plans (JBPs)

• Promotions & Trade Strategy

• • Build and manage pricing models to maximise profitability and competitiveness
  • Oversee margin management and commercial performance
  • Drive accurate sales forecasting, budgeting, and demand planning

• Operational Excellence

• • Design and execute effective promotional plans
  • Optimise trade spend and ROI across all channels
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing and supply chain teams

• • Ensure strong stock forecasting and availability
  • Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and customer insights
  • Implement best practices in sales processes and reporting

About You

• Proven track record in a senior sales leadership role within FMCG, ideally non-perishable goods
• Strong existing relationships with UK supermarkets and wholesale channels
• Demonstrable experience managing large accounts and negotiating at a senior level
• Highly numerate, with strong expertise in:
  • Pricing models
  • Forecasting
  • Margin management
  • Trade promotions
• Experience leading and developing high-performing sales teams
• Commercially astute, strategic thinker with a hands-on approach
• Confident, credible, and capable of influencing both internally and externally

Working Arrangement

• UK-based with flexible/home working options
• Regular travel to customer sites and occasional visits to the East London office
• Autonomy to manage your own diary and customer engagement