Sales Manager — Chemical Distribution

Company Description Rivermead Group Ltd is a UK-based retail and advisory company operating across wholesale distribution, e-commerce, and commercial consultancy. The company partners with manufacturers and brand owners to deliver compliant, structured retail operations across digital channels. In addition to trading activities, Rivermead provides programme and commercial advisory support focused on disciplined delivery, operational performance, and scalable growth. Rivermead’s approach combines strong governance with commercial agility to enable sustainable brands and high-performing business operations. The company is headquartered in the United Kingdom and works with clients in diverse sectors, including chemical distribution.
Role Description The Sales Manager — Chemical Distribution is a full-time, on-site role based in San Francisco, CA. This role is responsible for developing and executing sales strategies for chemical distribution, managing key accounts, and expanding Rivermead’s presence with manufacturers, brand owners, and industrial customers. Day-to-day activities include identifying new business opportunities, leading customer meetings, preparing proposals and pricing, and negotiating contracts that comply with regulatory and safety standards. The Sales Manager will collaborate with internal teams to align commercial plans with operational capabilities, monitor market trends, and provide accurate sales forecasts and performance reports. This role also involves coaching and supporting sales staff, maintaining strong customer relationships, and representing Rivermead at industry events and trade shows.


Responsibilities

- Work directly with ownership to learn the business, its customers, and growth opportunities.
- Manage, coach, and develop junior sales representatives; support team accountability, activity management, and effective sales execution.
- Monitor gross profit performance and maintain margin discipline across pricing, discounting, and deal structures.
- Review pricing strategies, profitability, and deal terms with a margin-first mindset.
- Build trust and credibility with senior and junior members of the sales team.
- Drive territory growth, customer retention, and pipeline development.
- Support hiring, onboarding, and ongoing development of future sales talent.
- Analyze sales performance, trends, and pipeline activity to inform strategy and coaching.
- Assist with strategic growth planning and expansion opportunities.
- Work cross-functionally with operations, purchasing, and leadership teams to ensure aligned execution.
- Transition gradually into broader leadership responsibility for the sales organization.
Qualifications:
- Prior experience in sales and in managing or supporting multiple sales representatives.
- Strong understanding of margins, profitability, and pricing strategy.
- Proven ability to build customer relationships and close business.
- Solid analytical and numerical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive decisions.
- Based in California or willing to relocate to California.
Preferred:
- Analytical and commercially aware, with a humble but confident approach.
- Strong communicator and team player who earns respect naturally.
- Long-term mindset and genuine interest in leadership development.