Key Account Controller

Who We Are

Suntory is a fast moving, agile and entrepreneurial business that is home to some of the nations most loved brands. The Suntory Group is one of the largest soft drinks companies and among the world’s leading consumer products companies. We offer a uniquely diverse portfolio of beverages enjoyed by millions across the globe

About your role

The purpose of this position is to: Lead the commercial strategy and customer partnerships across Discounters, Modern Retail, High Street and Travel channels, delivering sustainable profitable growth with strategically important customers including Aldi, Lidl, Greggs and WHSmith.

This is a high-impact leadership role at the centre of Suntory’s UK growth agenda, responsible for leading complex customer negotiations, shaping channel strategy and driving execution excellence across some of the UK’s most fast-paced and competitive FMCG retail environments

What You'll Do

Strategic ownership of Modern Retail, Discounters, and High Street channels.

Lead customer strategy across key strategic accounts.

Deliver sustainable growth within highly competitive, margin-sensitive retail environments

Build differentiated category and promotional strategies tailored to discounter operating models

Own the customer P&L including volume, net sales, gross profit, and trade spend ROI.

Develop and maintain senior-level strategic relationships across customer networks.

Lead negotiation and execution of Joint Business Plans with key customers.

Inspire and develop a high-performing customer team through coaching, stretch leadership and clear accountability

Influence cross-functionally with Marketing, Trade Marketing, RGM, Supply Chain, and Finance to ensure aligned execution across price, promotion and PPA.

Drive customer execution plans that maximize brand impact and competitive advantage.

Build succession capability and strengthen commercial talent across the function

Lead with pace, resilience and strategic clarity within a fast-moving FMCG environment

Managing complex multi-channel customer relationships with diverse stakeholder needs

What's in it for you

Joining Suntory isn’t just about taking on a role, it’s about embarking on a career journey. You have the opportunity to work with talented, inspiring and authentic leaders and have the freedom to dream big and go for it (Yatte Minahare). At Suntory you’ll find a supportive work environment that values work life balance and that will help you realise your full potential and grow for good. Our People and Culture team are a team that genuinely care about creating a great experience for our employees and we would love you to be part of it.

What You need to be successful

Degree or equivalent experience
Significant experience FMCG commercial leadership experience within UK grocery or discounter channels
Strong commercial acumen and financial management skills

Understanding of Revenue Growth Management principles

Proven success managing complex retail customer

Advanced interpersonal and negotiation skills

Proficiency in Excel and data analysis

Our DEI Commitment

At Suntory, we recognize that diverse knowledge, perspectives, and backgrounds contribute to our collective success. We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all individuals can bring their whole selves to work every day, regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or any other protected characteristic.

Our recruitment and selection processes are designed to highlight what Suntory offers as an employer while allowing candidates to share their unique skills and experiences. We understand that career trajectories vary, and if you believe your experience/background can benefit our team, we encourage you to apply. We endeavor to make our interview process as inclusive as possible and offer reasonable accommodations as needed. Together, we can cultivate a workplace where everyone can thrive and propel our mission of Growing for Good.