About this role
Overview
Our client is a leading global pet food manufacturer, is seeking a highly experienced, results-driven Regional Manager to lead their operations in the UK & Ireland. This senior role carries full P&L accountability, driving sales growth, market share, and brand presence in one of their most important regions.
The ideal candidate will combine strategic leadership with hands-on commercial expertise, building strong partnerships with retailers and distributors, while fostering a close and collaborative relationship with the European headquarters and cross-functional leaders to ensure aligned goals, knowledge sharing, and best practice implementation.
Purpose of the Role
To develop, maintain, and grow long-term relationships with key customers, distributors, and partners across the UK & Ireland. The Regional Manager will define and implement strategies that ensure brand consistency, market growth, and sustainable profitability, while aligning with their overall European business objectives. A key aspect of this role is close collaboration with the Managing Director, other country managers, and functional heads (Marketing, Supply Chain & Logistics, Finance, HR) to ensure integrated planning, operational excellence, and seamless execution across the region.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Leadership
Develop and execute the UK & Ireland sales strategy in line with European objectivesAchieve annual revenue, profit, and market share targetsLead high-level negotiations with retail chains, distributors, and other key partnersProvide accurate sales forecasts and deliver against budget commitmentsActively contribute to European leadership meetings, sharing local insights to shape regional strategies.Brand & Marketing Management
Plan and execute impactful brand and promotional campaigns, in-store and online in close collaboration with the European marketing teamEnsure all activities comply with brand guidelines and protect intellectual propertyUse market and consumer insights to guide product positioning and marketing spendWork closely with the Logistics & Supply Chain departments to ensure timely, successful product launches.Market Development & Expansion
Identify and secure new business opportunities in the pet food sectorLaunch new products with strong retail activation and promotional supportRepresent our client at trade shows, exhibitions, and industry eventsOperational Excellence & HEADQUARTER (HQ) Alignment
Maintain close, transparent communication with HQ to ensure alignment on strategy, priorities, and performance metricsMonitor competitor activity and provide regular market intelligence to HQ and relevant department headsDrive cross-functional projects in cooperation with Marketing, Logistics & Supply Chain, and Finance to maximise efficiency and customer satisfactionFoster a collaborative, solution-focused working culture between the UK & Ireland, teams and headquarters, ensuring shared successes and alignment on strategic prioritiesRequirements
Essential Qualifications & Skills
7–10 years’ sales leadership experience in the pet food industry (FMCG experience an advantage)Proven ability to work collaboratively with international teams and cross-functional leadersProven track record in managing major retail and distribution accountsStrong negotiation, relationship management, and business development skillsAnalytical mindset with experience in market research and data-driven decision-makingSelf-motivated, commercially astute, and results-orientedFluent in English (written and spoken); advanced MS Office skillsBachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related fieldWillingness to travel regularly within the UK, Ireland, and EuropeFull, clean UK or Irish driving licenceKey Leadership Competencies
Strategic thinking and commercial acumenDrive for results and accountabilityCustomer focus and relationship buildingStrong planning and prioritisation skillsExcellent communication and influencing abilitiesTeam collaboration and stakeholder engagement