We are the internal recruitment partner for our client, a well-established, independent, family-owned enterprise that has been a cornerstone of the UK food-service distribution sector for five decades. They are seeking an Area Sales Manager to develop and grow customer relationships while identifying new business opportunities across the south west. This is a field-based role, working closely with the Telesales team to focus on face-to-face account development, category growth, and new business acquisition. The role is contracted at 45 hours per week, offers flexibility to meet customer needs, and requires effective diary management rather than a traditional 9-5 approach.Responsibilities:Represent the company professionally and deliver a high level of service to all customersDevelop existing customer relationships, identifying opportunities to introduce new products and categoriesProactively identify, target, and open new business accountsRespond to incoming sales leads and work closely with the telesales teamPlan and manage a structured customer visit schedule across your territoryDrive category growth across ambient, frozen, fish, fats, and oilsSupport the Accounts team in maintaining agreed credit termsMaintain accurate daily call reports and CRM recordsMonitor and report on competitor activity within your territoryProduce regular sales activity and performance reportsSupport company-wide sales campaigns and attend weekend exhibitions when requiredThe successful candidate