Customer Account Manager

We are currently seeking an interim Customer Account Manager, to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.

The position is based in Kingston upon Thames, Surrey. This is a full-time temporary role to run to 30/01/2026 (Maternity Cover), requiring 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying between £44,000k - £48,000 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.

The role currently offers a mix of remote and onsite working, subject to adjustment based on business requirements.

Job Purpose:

This role sits within the Away from Home Convenience team where we have responsibility for a universe of over 40,000 outlets across managed convenience, high street, discounters, travel and symbol stores.

You will be responsible for managing a selection of key retailers within the forecourts channel for impulse and take-home ice cream becoming an expert on your portfolio and working with your retailers to sell ice cream brilliantly.

It will involve working closely with internal stakeholders, route to market partners and directly with multiple stakeholders within your accounts.

Responsibilities:

• Build strong and sustainable relationships at all levels with a range of wholesale and retail customers.
• Develop a deep contact network at head office, regional and outlet level.
• Act as active ambassador of Unilever
• Negotiate effectively with the customer e.g. to agree trade terms, trade funding, and counterparts according to the UL ice cream strategy
• Manage our presence at key customer events e.g. trade shows
• Develop strong customer business plans with the support of a great cross-functional team of Brand Managers, Category Managers, AFMs and Shopper Marketing
• Develop and deliver an optimal category promotional plan
• Manage promotional and non-promotional investments with the customers and ensure all agreements are properly documented and stored
• Own all administration for your accounts, invoicing & accruals etc.
• Manage the launch of new products with customers e.g. selling in the new product and providing samples in a timely manner
• Ensure effective in-store activation of key events (e.g. promotions, range reviews), providing clear briefings to the Retail Operations Team where appropriate
• Develop a sector strategy to ensure delivery of sales and profit targets
• Manage the customer P&Ls and the overall level of customer investment
• Ensuring regular reviews with customers to monitor and maintain performance versus plan
• Manage in-month performance vs forecast, working closely with CBMs and Business Operations
• Manage accruals and pricing accurately and efficiently
• Ensure customer is compliant with agreed trade terms; where these are breached seek a resolution and monitor implementation

Additional Information
Kingston working environment:

• Contractors who are based at Kingston will be eligible to get free parking at a local carpark
• There is a Unilever Staff Shop located on the Ground Floor next to the main entrance, where Contingent Workers can buy discounted Unilever products.
• A canteen
• A Gym is available for use on the Ground Floor (with subscription).
• Facilities in the gym include cardiovascular equipment, resistance machines, spin bikes, free weights area, boxing equipment and a stretch/matted area. Classes are also available and can be booked directly with the Gym. Shower facilities are available in the changing rooms, along with hairdryers.