Sales Manager Designate

Cloud 9 are exclusively retained to partner with a well-established, independently owned packaging manufacturer in the Northwest, currently undergoing significant investment and expansion.

As part of this next phase, the business is looking to appoint a Sales Manager Designate… a high-potential commercial individual who will play a key role in driving growth today, with a clear pathway into a Sales Management position over the next 2–3 years.

This is not just another business development role. It’s an opportunity to step into a succession-led position within a progressive, well-run independent.

The Opportunity

With substantial investment in new converting machinery, the business is entering an exciting period of growth.

This role will sit at the centre of that journey.

You will take ownership of developing new business and growing existing accounts, with a core focus on generating the right volume and quality of work to maximise utilisation of newly installed production capability.

Operating in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, you’ll work closely with internal teams to translate customer requirements into commercially viable, technically sound packaging solutions.

Alongside this, you’ll inherit an existing customer base (circa £1m turnover), providing a solid platform while you build out further revenue streams.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and win new business across the North West & Yorkshire
• Manage and grow an existing portfolio of accounts, maximising long-term value
• Proactively identify opportunities to drive volume through newly invested converting machinery
• Re-engage and recover lapsed or dormant accounts where appropriate
• Translate customer requirements into clear briefs for internal teams
• Measure samples and provide accurate specifications for quotation
• Contribute to pricing activity in collaboration with the Finance function
• Work closely with Production, Design, Customer Service and Finance to deliver commercially viable solutions
• Build strong, lasting relationships across a broad customer base

You will report directly to the Managing Director and work closely with senior stakeholders across the business.

About You

This role is designed for someone with both commercial drive and long-term leadership potential.

You’re likely to bring:

• A proven track record in new business development within packaging
• Experience in corrugated packaging is highly desirable, though candidates from other packaging sectors will be considered
• A strong ability to open doors, win work and build sustainable pipelines
• An understanding of manufacturing and how production capability links to commercial success
• Confidence in handling technical conversations, including specifications and sampling
• Commercial awareness, with the ability to contribute to pricing decisions
• A stable and progressive career history, demonstrating commitment and credibility

Above all, you’ll be someone who wants more than just a sales role… you’ll be motivated by the opportunity to step into leadership.

Why Join?

• Independently owned business with strong foundations and reputation
• Significant recent investment in production capability
• Clear growth strategy and leadership vision
• Close-knit, agile and commercially focused team
• High level of autonomy, visibility and impact

Career Pathway

This is a succession-focused appointment.

The successful individual will be developed into a Sales Manager position within 2–3 years, taking on increased responsibility for team leadership, commercial strategy and revenue performance.

For the right person, this represents a genuine opportunity to build a long-term career within a growing independent business… not just deliver results but shape the future direction of the commercial function.

Remuneration

Basic salary circa £55k-£58k+ (DOE) Commission, Company Car, Negotiable Package