Area Sales Manager - Food Service sector

Reed is recruiting on behalf of a well-established, independent family-owned business that supplies into the catering sector. Due to internal progression and long-term tenure within the team, they are now looking to appoint an Area Sales Manager to join their successful field sales division. The Opportunity These are well-established territories with a strong existing customer base. The role will focus on: • 70% account management – developing sales from existing, dormant, lapsed, and lost accounts • 30% new business development – identifying and winning new customers You’ll work closely with internal buying and operations teams when onboarding new customers, and receive ongoing support from a depot-based telesales function who will regularly service accounts and place orders. What’s on Offer • Basic salary of £37,000 – £39,000 • Quarterly bonus scheme with realistic OTE of circa £10,000 • Bonus earned through new business and growth across existing/lapsed accounts • Company car, mobile phone, and laptop provided • Established territory with immediate earning potential • Long-term career stability within a growing, family-run business The Role • Bristol & Southwest: Covering BA, SN, SP, TA, BS, EX22, EX23, EX31–39 – Looking for someone to be based living in and around the Bristol area Key Responsibilities • Manage and develop relationships with existing customers across your territory • Identify and convert new business opportunities • Re-engage dormant and lapsed accounts to drive revenue growth • Respond to inbound sales enquiries and leads • Represent the business professionally in the field • Maintain accurate records of customer visits and activity • Monitor competitor activity and market trends • Collaborate with internal teams to ensure excellent customer service delivery • Contribute to sales campaigns and regional targets About You • Ideally 2+ years’ experience in food or catering sales, however strong field sales experience in a related sector will be considered • Proven track record in achieving sales targets and KPIs • Excellent relationship-building and negotiation skills • Organised, self-motivated, and able to manage your own territory effectively • Team player with strong communication skills • Full UK driving licence Why Join? • One role is replacing a long-standing team member of 8 years, highlighting strong retention • The second role has arisen due to internal promotion, demonstrating clear progression opportunities • Supportive team environment with structured internal backing from telesales and operations