European Business Development Manager (Musical Instruments)

European Business Development Manager (Musical Instruments)

We’re looking for a dynamic Business Development Manager to drive retail and wholesale growth within the UK and EU markets. The ideal candidate will have a robust understanding of importation processes, strong product management expertise, and a well-established network within the retail sector. As the Sales Director, you’ll play a pivotal role in building relationships with current and potential retail partners, leading our sales strategies, and ensuring the smooth operation of our retail channels.

About Us:

We are an innovative and rapidly growing brand within the musical instrument industry, offering a range of high-quality products designed to inspire musicians of all levels with a focus on the starter (or first instrument) market. With a strong presence in the US and UK, we are now focused on expanding further, particularly with brick-and-mortar retailers across Europe. Our brand thrives on creativity, quality, and a deep passion for music, and we’re seeking an experienced and results-driven European Business Development Manager to lead our efforts in the UK and EU.

Responsibilities

• Cultivate and manage relationships with both existing and new brick-and-mortar retailers across the EU.
• Negotiate and oversee contracts, pricing, and promotional strategies with retail partners.
• Identify and pursue new retail opportunities, including independent stores, regional chains, and large retail groups.
• Conduct regular visits to retail partners, ensuring optimal product placement and offering ongoing sales support.
• Develop and execute comprehensive sales strategies to grow our EU retail presence.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to tailor campaigns, promotions, and product launches specifically for retail channels.
• Set sales targets and KPIs to drive retail performance in alignment with company objectives.
• Analyse sales data, track inventory levels, and offer feedback to enhance product offerings and sales tactics.
• Oversee importation processes, ensuring timely delivery of products to EU retailers.
• Monitor product availability and collaborate with supply chain teams to maintain optimal stock levels.
• Advise on product positioning and mix to maximize retail sales potential.
• Conduct market research to identify industry trends, competitor activity, and customer preferences across the EU.
• Provide regular reports on sales performance, market insights, and competitor analysis to senior management.
• Use data to refine strategies, uncover new growth opportunities, and address challenges.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Operations, Product Development) to ensure alignment and drive retail success.
• Partner with the Amazon sales team to ensure cohesive sales strategies for both online and offline channels.
• Support customer service teams to facilitate effective communication and resolve retailer-related issues.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in sales management, preferably in the musical instrument or consumer goods industry.
• Strong understanding of importation processes, logistics, and distribution within the EU.
• Established relationships with key retail partners across EU markets (both physical and online). Our target market is mass market retailers rather than specialised music retailers.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in product management and retail merchandising.
• Knowledge of sales analytics, forecasting, and market research.
• A passion for music and understanding of musicians' needs is highly desirable.
• Willingness to travel across the EU as needed.
• Fluency in additional European languages (e.g., French, German, Spanish) is a plus.
• Familiarity with eCommerce platforms and retail management software.

Why Join Us?

• Join an exciting and innovative brand in the music industry.
• Shape the future growth and direction of a dynamic company.
• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Flexible working arrangements with travel opportunities.
• Be part of a collaborative, creative, and forward-thinking team.