Key Customer Manager – North East: A Strategic Opportunity in the On-Trade Sector
This Key Customer Manager position, based in the vibrant Tyne Tees region, presents a compelling opportunity for a commercially astute and relationship-driven professional within the thriving On-Trade sector. As part of a leading pub, cider, and beer company with a rich heritage and a forward-thinking vision, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the success of HEINEKEN UK's key accounts in the North East.
The Opportunity: Driving Growth and Building Relationships
At its core, this role is about owning and nurturing the commercial relationships with a portfolio of influential customers. You will be instrumental in delivering and executing Joint Business Plans, with a clear focus on achieving budgeted volume, revenue, and gross profit. This is a strategic position where you will:
- Define and implement strategic directions for your accounts, maximising product mix, brand distribution, and New Product Introduction (NPI) performance.
- Actively seek opportunities to drive value share growth and enhance the visibility and availability of HEINEKEN UK brands.
- Take full ownership of your Profit & Loss (P&L), demonstrating strong financial acumen.
- Collaborate effectively with the wider North East On-Trade team to ensure a cohesive and customer-centric approach.
- Report into the Customer Development Director, contributing to the overall commercial strategy.
Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:
This role is ideal for an individual who thrives in a dynamic environment and possesses a unique blend of commercial prowess and strong interpersonal skills. We're looking for candidates who:
- Are Strategic Thinkers: You can operate at pace, adapt quickly to market shifts, and balance short-term delivery with long-term strategic goals.
- Excel at Relationship Building: You can build trusted relationships across various levels and functions, communicating clearly and with impact.
- Possess Strong Commercial Acumen: You have a keen understanding of P&L management, can translate data into compelling commercial narratives, and excel in influencing and negotiation.
- Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence: You manage emotions effectively under pressure and possess the critical thinking skills to make sound, balanced decisions.
- Are Driven by Continuous Improvement: You actively seek feedback, are eager to learn, and foster a winning and collaborative spirit.
Career Path Advantages:
This role offers significant advantages for your career development:
- Exposure to a Leading Brand: Working with HEINEKEN UK provides invaluable experience with a globally recognised and respected brand in the beverage industry.
- P&L Ownership: Direct responsibility for a P&L is a significant step in commercial career progression, allowing you to demonstrate tangible impact.
- Strategic Influence: The opportunity to set strategic direction for key accounts empowers you to drive meaningful change and growth.
- Development Opportunities: HEINEKEN UK is committed to colleague development, offering exciting prospects to enhance your skills and advance your career.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond a competitive salary (£48,000 - £58,000 base depending on experience), you will receive an annual bonus, company car, meal and broadband allowance, private medical healthcare, a double-matched pension (up to 10%), a generous 35 days of holiday, and an allowance for HEINEKEN UK products.
- Inclusivity and Belonging: You’ll have the chance to engage with colleague networks, contributing to a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
Important Notes for Applicants:
This is a 12-month fixed-term contract position. The closing date for applications is 16th November 2025. Please be aware that vacancies may close early due to a high volume of applications, so early submission is encouraged. Interviews are scheduled for 24th/25th November.
HEINEKEN UK encourages all interested candidates to apply, even if you don't meet every single criterion. They value potential and growth, and believe you might be exactly what they're looking for.