Alastair White – Sales
Business Development Manager - Tesco
In this role I am responsible for the management of the One Stop account and the different Tesco Formats (Tesco Metro and Express) as well as executing our key events across the Tesco Superstores and Extras in order to maximise their sales potential for both Tesco and Kellogg’s.
I joined Kellogg’s as a graduate and was promoted in Aug 2006 from the role of Territory Development Manager in London/Surrey where I was responsible for circa 60 stores, to the role of National Account Executive on Tesco. In this role I was responsible for the upkeep of all admin on the Tesco account, ensuring all promotions were correctly loaded, that we’re fully aware of all activities over the coming months as well as taking on any ad-hoc projects from the National Account Controller.
Prior to joining Kellogg’s I had worked in a couple of office roles. However, this is a really different environment to work in; it’s very friendly with lots of support when you need it. There’s always a good atmosphere around the office, which is equally as important as the competitive salary.
Kellogg’s have quite a structured routine regarding development. I meet once a week with my Line Manager to talk about how things are going and to discuss any issues and projects that I may want to be involved with. It’s quite a general chat, an open forum, which allows your Line Manager to remain aware of your progression and aspirations on a weekly basis.
Tesco is Kellogg’s biggest account, so my role has a lot of responsibility and pressure - but it’s always enjoyable. Working on such a large account gives me great exposure and good opportunities to go after lots of little projects. There are also lots of people on this account so we enjoy plenty of interaction.
The role is really important in developing my skills as a junior National Account Manager and I also enjoy being involved in Category Management and Customer Marketing. I’m constantly learning and I can see many available paths to future progression – it’s unlimited!
Finally, the people are really good here and won’t let you down. I’d say it’s the people that make Kellogg’s so different. Their values are excellent and I’ve been treated very well. So, if I move up, I’ll take those values with me. You’re also encouraged to have a healthy work/life balance. For instance through May to September you can go home about 12noon on Friday - if you’ve done all your work of course!