Key Account Manager

About the Company

Ampersand is a nationwide sales and marketing enterprise operating within Ireland's fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, boasting over 70 years of experience. The company directly distributes to more than 3,000 stores and holds a significant presence in the convenience and off-licence markets. Their diverse product portfolio includes over 50 suppliers both domestic and international featuring categories such as cigars, confectionery, tobacco accessories, snacking, and consumer goods. Some notable brands under their umbrella include Cleeve’s Irish Confectionery, Sonas Sweets Confectionery, Swan & OCB Tobacco Accessories, Clipper Lighters, along with a comprehensive range of handmade and machine-made cigars.

Role Overview

We are searching for a driven and high-achieving Key Account Manager to spearhead sustainable revenue growth among our strategic key accounts. This full-time, permanent position is based in Clondalkin and reports directly to the Sales & NPD Manager.

Core Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee strategic accounts within multiple retail and convenience sectors.
• Forge and maintain robust relationships with senior decision-makers, buyers, and operational stakeholders.
• Conduct presentations to headquarters and participate in customer meetings, trade exhibitions, and industry events.
• Create tailored account plans for key clients encompassing revenue targets, margin optimization, product goals, and retention metrics.
• Identify and capitalize on opportunities to amplify sales through new product introductions, cross-selling, upselling, and expanding account reach.
• Lead negotiation and execution of joint business plans and manage customer portals.

Commercial Duties

• Manage retail listing platforms and promotion calendars effectively.
• Prepare quotations, tender submissions, proposals, and customer contracts.
• Conduct pricing, rebates, promotions, payment terms, and service arrangement negotiations within defined authority limits.
• Safeguard gross margin integrity and recommend strategies to improve customer and category performance.
• Maintain accurate documentation such as price lists, contracts, and commercial terms.
• Deliver dependable sales forecasting to facilitate purchasing, inventory, and cash flow management.
• Collaborate closely with procurement, warehouse, and marketing teams and support broader company objectives.
• Monitor market trends, competitor actions, and customer purchasing patterns.
• Contribute valuable market insights impacting product range, pricing strategies, and promotional activities.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum three years’ experience in a comparable FMCG role.
• Strong analytical skills and a data-driven approach.
• Proven ability to network, build relationships, and foster cross-functional collaboration.
• Proficiency with CRM systems, advanced Excel functions including pivot tables, and sales data analytics.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related discipline is preferred.

Key Personal Attributes

• Exceptional communication and presentation capabilities.
• Strong negotiation skills and effective stakeholder management.
• Motivated by sales targets and results.
• Self-starter with ability to take initiative.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Collaborative team player mindset.

Benefits Package

• Competitive salary with bonus opportunities based on performance.
• Company-provided car.
• Pension scheme participation.
• Life insurance coverage and death-in-service benefits.
• Provision of laptop and mobile phone.
• Access to ongoing training and development programs.