National Account Controller

Job Title: National Account Controller – Kitchen Retail
Location: Luton
Salary: Up to £75,000 plus company car, bonus and benefits
Role: Permanent

Are you a high performing Senior National Account Manager or UK Account Controller looking for your next challenge?

If you want to work for a global leader with unlimited opportunities for your future development then this role could be the perfect opportunity to enhance your already stellar career.

We are seeking a dynamic leader to drive the growth and success of our clients’ national kitchen accounts, including Wren, Magnet, Wickes, and Howdens. This pivotal role demands strategic vision, robust leadership, and the ability to work effectively in a competitive landscape.

As the National Account Controller, you will manage the relationship between our clients brand and key retailers at the Head Office level. You will be responsible for both strategic sales planning and tactical direction to maximize growth and profitability. Reporting to the Channel Manager, you will oversee a team of four National Account Managers and one National Account Executive. Your deep understanding of each account and retailer objectives will enable you to build strong, influential relationships and deliver on business plans.

National Account Controller Key Responsibilities:

Develop and implement the Kitchen Retail Channel strategy to enhance sales opportunities and profitability.

Forge and maintain industry networks to identify sales opportunities.

Collaborate with National Account Managers to create annual Joint Business Plans and negotiate commercial agreements.

Conduct regular meetings with key contacts to build relationships, manage stakeholders, and ensure account plans are on track.

Analyse sales trends and forecasts to align factory production with retailer demand.

Coordinate with the Product Line to agree on ranges and pricing, maximizing sales and profitability.

Manage A&P budgets to deliver optimal ROI and adhere to investment processes.

Present and launch new products to drive sales.

Influence retailer strategy for product merchandising to boost brand awareness.

Provide leadership to ensure team performance and development.

Undertake additional duties or projects as needed to achieve business goals.

Qualifications:

Proven experience as a National Account Controller or in a similar account management role

Background in a commercial, consumer goods company.

Previous people management experience.

Strong ability to engage, motivate, and manage a sales team.

Excellent negotiation skills with stakeholders at all levels, including senior UK and European counterparts.

Strong business acumen with advanced analytical and numerical skills.

Excellent relationship-building skills with internal and external stakeholders.

Outstanding communication, planning, and organizational skills.

Ability to collaborate effectively and remain calm under pressure.

Location:

This is a field-based role with business travel across the UK (approximately 25-30%).

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for driving sales and leading teams in a challenging environment, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

If you are seeking a National Account Controller role with lots of opportunity for growth and progression, APPLY NOW for immediate consideration.