National Account Controller – Foods
📍 Location: Christchurch, Dorset (Hybrid – Office & Home)
📢 Department / Division: Commercial Department / Foods
📑 Reporting to: Commercial Director
Who We Are
At Solent Group, we work as one team to deliver results, drive innovation, and never compromise on quality. With over 25 years in FMCG, we specialise in own-label and branded products, supplying major UK retailers across impulse snacking, confectionery, health & beauty, and household essentials.
As part of the Humble Group, we operate with an entrepreneurial mindset, pushing boundaries and developing sustainable products that deliver value. Our approach is clear: work together, deliver quality, and never settle for ‘good enough’.
At Solent, we operate by four key values:
🤝 Strength in Unity – Collaborate cross-functionally and with retailers to drive long-term success
💎 Value Without Compromise – Deliver high-quality, innovative solutions that maximise ROI
🔥 Make It Awesome – Think creatively, challenge norms, and push boundaries in food retail
💪 Never Give Up – Tackle challenges head-on, always looking for the next opportunity
The Role
We’re looking for a National Account Controller – Foods to drive sales growth and build strong relationships with the UK’s top six grocery retailers. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a commercial environment, enjoys winning new business, and is eager to make a real impact in the FMCG space.
You’ll oversee existing accounts and new business development, working cross-functionally to manage projects, launch products, and optimise performance to maximise profitability.
What You’ll Do
✔ Grow existing accounts and secure new business opportunities in the UK grocery market
✔ Develop and execute customer-specific sales strategies aligned with commercial targets
✔ Work cross-functionally to manage project timelines, budgets, and execution
✔ Deliver P&L management, ensuring gross margin and volume targets are met
✔ Drive innovation and NPD, staying ahead of market trends
✔ Negotiate with key stakeholders to strengthen customer relationships
✔ Lead and manage internal and external teams to ensure seamless project execution
What You Bring
✔ 3+ years’ experience supplying food to top 6 grocery retailers
✔ Strong commercial acumen & account management skills
✔ FMCG experience within private label food categories (branded food experience is a bonus)
✔ P&L management and sales strategy expertise
✔ Strong negotiation & relationship-building skills
✔ Experience with Critical Path Management & resource planning
✔ Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Teams, Excel, and PowerPoint
✅ EV Salary Sacrifice Scheme
✅ Hybrid remote working with office HQ in Christchurch, Dorset
✅ Competitive salary + Annual bonus + Over performance bonus
✅ 33 days holiday (rising with service)
✅ Extensive benefits package including medical cash plan & mental health support
✅ Flexible working hours
✅ Career progression & development opportunities
✅ Regular social events
✅ Enhanced maternity & paternity leave
✅ Salary Sacrifice Pension & Cycle to Work scheme
If you’re a strategic thinker, commercially driven, and passionate about food retail, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today and be part of a business that values innovation, sustainability, and growth.