Sales & Key Accounts Manager (on-site)
Ampersand are a nationwide sales and marketing company supplying a full range of fast-moving consumer goods to all the retail groups in Ireland. With over 70 years' experience, we supply directly over 3,000 stores and are a key distributor in the convenience and off-license sector.
Our product portfolio is sourced from over 50 different suppliers based both in Ireland and in all parts of the world. Our product ranges are in Cigars, Confectionery, Tobacco accessories and Consumer products. Some of our brands include:
* Cleeve's Irish Confectionery
* Sonas Sweets Confectionery
* Swan & OCB Tobacco Accessories
* Clipper Lighters
* Agio Cigars
We are seeking a high-performing Sales & Key Accounts Manager to drive sustainable revenue growth across strategic key accounts while leading and developing the sales team to achieve our targets. This role combines hands-on management of key distributor accounts with sales strategy, execution, and people leadership.
This permanent, full-time role reports to the Managing Director and is based in our office in Clondalkin.
Key Responsibilities
Sales Management & Leadership
* Develop and execute the sales strategy to deliver revenue, volume, and market share targets via a sales team of 9.
* Lead and coach the sales team (field sales reps and IST).
* Set clear KPIs, targets, and incentives aligned with business goals.
* Monitor sales performance, forecasts, and budgets; implement corrective actions where needed.
* Work closely with sales and marketing, finance, and warehouse teams to ensure alignment.
* Ensure excellent execution of sales plans across channels (modern trade, general trade, distributors).
Key Account Management
* Own and manage strategic accounts.
* Develop and execute business plans aligned with company objectives.
* Lead negotiations on annual trade terms, promotions, listings and pricing.
* Drive distribution, assortment, promotional execution, and in-store visibility.
* Identify opportunities for volume growth, range expansion, and improved profitability.
* Build strong, long-term partnerships with senior customer stakeholders.
Planning, Analysis & Execution
* Analyze sales data, customer insights, and market trends to drive informed decision-making.
* Manage demand forecasting and sales planning to support supply chain efficiency.
* Track promotional effectiveness and ROI; optimize trade spend.
* Ensure accurate reporting, CRM updates, and compliance with company policies.
* Represent the company at key customer meetings, negotiations, and trade shows.
Required Qualifications
* 5+ years of experience in FMCG sales, including key account management and sales leadership.
* Demonstrated success in leading sales teams.
* Proven experience managing modern trade and/or large distributor accounts.
* Strong understanding of FMCG commercial levers: pricing, promotions, distribution, and merchandising.
* Proficiency in CRM systems, Excel, and sales reporting tools
* Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field (desirable)
Key Skills & Competencies
* Strong leadership and people-management skills
* Excellent negotiation and stakeholder-management abilities
* Strategic thinking combined with strong execution focus
* Commercial and financial acumen
* Data-driven mindset and analytical capability
What We Offer
* Competitive salary with performance-based bonus
* Company car
* Pension
* Life insurance
* Death in service
* Laptop, mobile phone
* Training opportunities