National Account Manager

National Account Manager Food & Beverage Distribution | London, UK (Hybrid/Field-based, national travel) About Our Client Our client is a London-based food distributor specialising in health-focused products — including oils, protein bars, and yogurts — sourced from over 85 countries worldwide. They supply an extensive network of retailers across the UK, with a strong presence in independent and value-focused shops, backed by 5 warehouses and a 350,000m² manufacturing and packaging facility. They are solely focused on food distribution, giving them deep expertise and a sharp focus on quality, reliability, and value across their supply chain. The Role Our client is looking for a commercially astute National Account Manager to own and grow a portfolio of key accounts across the UK — including retail groups, wholesalers, and buying groups within the independent and value retail sector. The successful candidate will be responsible for the full commercial relationship: negotiating terms, securing listings, driving volume, and acting as the senior point of contact for these accounts. This is a target-driven, relationship-led role suited to an experienced account manager who is comfortable negotiating at a senior level, managing a national patch, and working cross-functionally with warehousing, buying, and supply chain teams to keep customers supplied and satisfied. Key Responsibilities

• Own and develop a portfolio of national accounts (retail groups, wholesalers, buying groups) across the UK independent and value retail sector
• Lead commercial negotiations on pricing, terms, listings, and promotional activity
• Build and maintain senior-level relationships with buyers and decision-makers at account level
• Develop and deliver account growth plans, identifying opportunities to expand range and volume
• Manage a morning call round and regular account reviews to track performance, resolve issues, and plan activity
• Work closely with warehouse, supply chain, and manufacturing teams to ensure product availability and smooth order fulfilment across the company's UK warehouses
• Monitor competitor activity and market trends, feeding insight back into commercial strategy
• Accurately forecast account performance and report against sales targets
• Travel to customer sites and head offices across the UK as required What Our Client Is Looking For
• Proven experience as a National/Key Account Manager, ideally within FMCG, food, or drink distribution
• Strong track record of negotiating commercial terms and growing account revenue
• Full, valid UK driving licence with no more than 3 points
• Comfortable with regular national travel
• Confident, senior-level communicator, able to build trust and influence at buyer/decision-maker level
• Commercially sharp, numerate, and analytical, with strong forecasting and reporting skills
• Self-motivated and able to manage a national account portfolio with minimal oversight
• Right to work in the UK