Business Development Manager/Sales & Export Manager

About Prestat Chocolates

Prestat Chocolates, a family-owned luxury chocolatier based in London since 1902, was founded by Antoine Dufour, the inventor of the truffle. The Prestat Group includes prestigious heritage brands such as Prestat, purveyors of fine chocolates to the Royal Family, and Rococo Chocolates, an award-winning chocolatier established in 1983 by Chantal Coady O.B.E. Following a recent round of investment, Prestat Group is looking for a dedicated Business Development Manager OR sales & Export Manager to drive the business forward.

Key Responsibilities

• Sales Activities:
• Outbound sales efforts.
• Pitching to retailers and corporate clients, including farm shops, cafes, delis, department stores, hotels, etc.
• Establishing new business and generating leads.
• Managing accounts.
• Presenting the Rococo brand and products.
• Maintaining accurate sales records.
• Attending trade shows, conferences, meetings, and exhibitions.
• Negotiating commercial deals and sales contracts.
• Achieving sales targets (weekly, monthly, annually).
• Reviewing sales performance and financial reporting.

• Sales Growth:
• Developing and implementing strategies to increase sales in existing channels and with current customers.
• Identifying and pursuing opportunities to acquire new customers and expand market presence.

• Brand Promotion:
• Promoting the Rococo Chocolates brand through various marketing and sales initiatives.
• Collaborating with the marketing team to align sales strategies with brand campaigns.

• Customer Relationships:
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with distributors, export customers, and other partners.
• Establishing a feedback loop with buyers to gather insights and improve product offerings.

• Lead Generation:
• Identifying and generating new leads to expand the customer base.
• Utilizing various sales techniques, including networking, cold calling, and attending industry events.
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• Market Analysis:
• Conducting market research to identify trends, opportunities, and competitive landscape.
• Providing regular reports and insights to senior management on sales performance and market conditions.
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• Collaboration:
• Working closely with the product development team to ensure customer feedback is integrated into new product offerings.
• Collaborating with the logistics team to ensure timely and efficient delivery of products.

• Sales Administration:
• Managing sales budgets and forecasts.
• Maintaining accurate records of sales activities, customer interactions, and contracts.

Requirements

• Proven experience in sales management, preferably in the food or luxury goods industry.
• Strong understanding of the chocolate market and customer preferences.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with customers and partners.
• Proactive and results-oriented with a track record of achieving sales targets.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret sales data.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel as required.