Business Development Manager

Company: The Advocate Group
Apply for the Business Development Manager
Location: West Midlands
Job Description:

Business Development Manager

Field Based

Competitive Salary + Car Allowance + Bonus

We are currently representing an independent and authentic British cider producer with a real passion for quality, provenance and sustainability. With strong roots in the English countryside, the business produces a range of traditionally crafted ciders using 100% fresh-pressed English cider apples sourced from local orchards.

We are looking for a Business Development Manager to drive growth across the region, with a key focus on winning new business, increasing distribution and developing long-term relationships with existing customers across the On Trade.

This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially driven salesperson who enjoys being out in the market, identifying opportunities and turning relationships into tangible sales growth.

Key Responsibilities

  • Identify and secure new business opportunities across the On Trade, targeting pubs, bars, restaurants, wholesalers and hospitality businesses.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with existing customers, identifying opportunities to increase sales, distribution and product range.
  • Develop and manage a strong sales pipeline, proactively prospecting for new customers and converting opportunities into long-term accounts.
  • Increase the visibility and presence of the company’s portfolio across the territory through new listings, ranging and commercial activity.
  • Understand customer needs and market trends to identify opportunities for growth and develop commercially compelling proposals.
  • Negotiate new business opportunities and manage customer relationships to ensure strong levels of retention and ongoing account development.
  • Regularly visit customers and prospects, maintaining a strong presence in the market and building a network of contacts across the On Trade.
  • Monitor competitor activity and market developments, using this insight to identify new opportunities and support the wider sales strategy.
  • Maintain accurate customer and sales information through the CRM system and take ownership of agreed sales targets and KPIs.

About You

  • Proven sales experience within the drinks, FMCG, hospitality or On Trade sector.
  • A strong track record of winning new business and developing existing customer accounts.
  • Commercially driven, target-focused and motivated by achieving tangible sales growth.
  • Confident in identifying, developing and converting new business opportunities.
  • Strong understanding of the On Trade market and the dynamics of working with pubs, bars, restaurants and wholesalers.
  • Excellent relationship-building and negotiation skills, with the confidence to engage with customers at all levels.
  • Naturally proactive, entrepreneurial and comfortable working autonomously within a field-based role.
  • Passionate about building brands and creating long-term customer partnerships.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills.
  • Organised and able to effectively manage a customer base, sales pipeline and diary.
  • Comfortable using CRM systems, Microsoft Office and other basic business applications.
  • Positive, resilient and solutions-focused, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and growing business.
  • Comfortable with regular travel across the territory.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.

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Posted: September 12th, 2026