We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Potato Sales Executive to join our potato team to help maintain and expand our presence in the industry.

Company overview:

• We specialise in providing high-quality, fresh produce to UK supermarkets, processors and exporters. With a commitment to excellence and sustainability, combined with strong customer relationships, we have become a trusted name in the industry. We have a proven track record for excellence, winning awards for our potatoes.

Position overview:

• As a Potato Sales Executive, you will be responsible for the potato side of the business with a focus on driving sales of our potatoes to, and negotiating contracts with, UK supermarkets, processors and exporters. The role involves being a vital part of the potato team across all potato operations including crop planning, contracts and sales. You will be expected to maintain and build relationships with key decision-makers in the supermarket industry, identify new business opportunities and manage the sales process from initial contact through to successful delivery. You will also improve and implement changes to processes at all stages of the season to push profitability, improve quality and maximise harvest output.

Key Responsibilities:

• Account Management: Build and maintain long-term relationships with customers, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business. Become the face of the potato business and a representative of our brand.


• Budgets: Budget setting is a crucial part of the role. You will work with the line director, farm manager and agronomist to both set and negotiate prices for the next season.


• Negotiations and Pricing: Present and negotiate prices, delivery schedules and terms with customers to close contracts and maximise profitability. This will also include ad-hoc sales to open market and non-contract customers.


• Stock Management: Work with the harvest manager and agronomist to ensure stock levels and storage are adequate for customer contracts, to maximise both product yield and pack out.


• Product Knowledge: Stay up to date on industry requirements, mitigating risks in crop quality and improving all areas by collaborating with all departments across the farm.


• Collaboration: Work closely with the farm manager and sales administration team to ensure smooth order fulfilment and customer satisfaction. Lead projects and work with new technology to help improve systems and productivity.


• Reporting: Regularly update sales budgets and contract plans, track sales and crop performance, and report on these to line director.


• Market Analysis: Monitor industry trends and competitors, providing feedback to the management team to adjust strategies as needed.

Desired qualifications and skills:

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, combined with high levels of accuracy, are essential.


• Proven experience in sales/contract management, preferably in the food or agricultural industries with a focus on fresh produce, is desirable but not essential.


• A strong understanding of the supermarket sector and the potato supply chain is preferred.


• Excellent verbal and written communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills with the ability to adapt to and engage any audience.


• Self-motivated, able to work both independently and as part of a team to achieve company goals whilst pushing profit-driving strategies throughout the potato process.


• A valid drivers licence and the ability to travel to meet customers.


• Ability to remain professional, work with confidential information and apply discretion as appropriate.


• Knowledge of sustainability practices and trends in the food industry.


• •Highly experienced in all Microsoft Office packages, particularly Excel.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary for the right individual dependent on experience.


• Opportunities to visit customer events, hosted award ceremonies and interactive industry shows.


• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.


• Supportive and collaborative team environment.