Commercial and Defence Sales Manager

Job Title: Commercial & Defence Sales Manager
Reports to: Commercial & Defence Sales Director

Job Purpose

We are working on behalf of our client to recruit a Commercial & Defence Sales Manager who will drive growth by managing customer relationships, leading business development initiatives, and consistently delivering on sales targets.
The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in expanding market presence, developing new business opportunities, and ensuring high standards of customer service and account management.

A globally respected and long-established UK manufacturer renowned for delivering innovative, high-performance synthetic rope solutions across the commercial marine, defence, industrial, and safety sectors. With a strong heritage of engineering excellence, technical expertise, and customer-focused innovation, the business has built a trusted international reputation for quality, reliability, and performance in demanding environments.

Key Responsibilities

Sales Strategy & Market Development

• Develop and implement sales plans aligned with company objectives for both commercial and defence markets.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities in domestic and international markets.
• Gather and analyse market intelligence and customer feedback to inform product positioning and development.
• Report on competitor activity and market trends.

Account Management & Customer Engagement

• Manage and grow relationships with key accounts, distributors, and partners.
• Conduct regular site visits and maintain strong customer engagement.
• Represent our client at trade shows, exhibitions, and industry events.
• Ensure high standards of customer service and responsiveness.

Business Development & Sales Execution

• Prepare and oversee quotations, tenders, and commercial proposals.
• Work closely with internal teams (Customer Service, Technical, Production, Marketing) to ensure smooth order fulfilment and customer satisfaction.
• Maintain accurate CRM records and contribute to regular sales reporting.
• Prepare and submit sales forecasts, plans, and reports as required.

Compliance & Team Support

• Comply fully with company policies, procedures, and guidelines in all duties.
• Provide backup assistance for other team members and cover roles as needed.
• Carry out ad hoc tasks and projects as required by management.

Ideal candidate will have the following experience:

• Proven sales and New Business Development track record
• Ideally technical sales experience
• Possibly an engineering background or education
• Able to build long lasting business relationships
• Need to be local (commuting distance)
• Willing to travel nationally and abroad - about 30%
• Capacity to develop within the business

Excellent salary and bonus, paid quarterly. The position will come with a Hybrid vehicle.

This job description sets out the duties of the post at the time it was drawn up. Such duties may vary from time to time without changing the general character of the duties or the level of responsibility entailed. Such variations are a common occurrence and cannot of themselves justify a reconsideration of the grading of the post.

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