The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Key Account Executive (L2)
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Mastering account P&L for smaller accounts, developing strong negotiation fundamentals, building initial strategic relationships with buyers, and getting comfortable with data analysis.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently exceeding sales and profit targets for your assigned smaller accounts.
- Successfully leading smaller JBP discussions and securing new listings.
- Demonstrating strong commercial acumen and proactive problem-solving.
- Receiving positive feedback from both internal stakeholders and external buyers.
- 2
Field Sales Manager / Regional Sales Manager
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Developing leadership skills by managing a team, understanding route-to-market complexities, driving sales across a territory, and managing budgets.
You're ready to move on when
- Achieving consistent growth across your region or team.
- Successfully coaching and developing junior sales talent.
- Demonstrating strong organisational and strategic planning skills at a regional level.
- A clear understanding of how field sales contribute to national account strategy.
- 3
Category Executive / Junior Category Manager
2-4 yearsSkills to master
- Deep expertise in category data analysis, shopper insights, and developing category strategies. Understanding how to influence retailers through data-backed recommendations.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully delivering category growth projects for retailers.
- Strong analytical capabilities with Nielsen/IRI data.
- Ability to present compelling, data-driven insights to internal and external stakeholders.
- A clear passion for understanding shopper behaviour and market trends.