Alison Lakin

General Sales Manager E-commerce/Grocery/Discount Channel

United Kingdom

About

A self-motivated, conscientious, organized & committed Account Manager. With a strong background in retail, I have progressed my career into Area Management & onto National Account Management through determination & continuous drive. I take ownership of my accounts & work closely with all teams/functions within the business to ensure that the customers expectations are met. I work closely with buyers, merchandising & logistics teams to fully understand their needs & the challenges their businesses face in an ever changing climate. I bring attention to detail coupled with a growth mentality & my communication skills drive customer trust. I have over 20 years National Account/Channel management experience managing & developing business with UK high street customers, grocery, online & catalogue channels & 2 years Export Management experience expanding distribution channels worldwide. I thrive on success & enjoy working with teams to ensure company targets are met.

Experience

  • EPOCH making toys Limited (Full-time · 5 yrs 3 mos)
    • General Sales Manager - Ecommerce/Grocery/Discount Channel
      Apr 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 3 mos

    • National Account Manager
      Apr 2021 - Apr 2024 · 3 yrs 1 mo

  • National Account Manager at Rainbow Designs
    Sep 2017 - Oct 2020 · 3 yrs 2 mos

    As National Account Manager, I had full P&L responsibility of £2.5M for Tesco, Smyths, Harrods, Hamleys & WHSmiths. I was also tasked with new business development of Aldi account which was a highlight of this role as I secured repeat special buys, achieving significant turnover in a new distribution channel for Rainbow. I created strategic account plans & JBP's to maximise potential on suitable licenses to develop/grow each major account along with negotiating in store & online promotional funding & trading terms. I planned, costed & pitched for Domestic and FOB business for ranged product, specials, bespoke deals and promotions. I built strong relationships with key departments for my accounts providing recommendations & solutions to drive business that was right for the customer & for Rainbow.

  • National Account Manager- Milly and Flynn at Hacche Retail Limited
    Jan 2015 - Jun 2017 · 2 yrs 6 mos

    Milly&Flynn is our exciting new world of gifts for children. Inspired by our founder's children and their love of beautiful books, puzzles and games, our Milly&Flynn team have created a unique range of products that children will enjoy and treasure. My role as National Account Manager is to introduce our new brand to the UK retailers, open accounts & drive business within high street, supermarket, department store & online customers. Responsible for increasing profit & turnover & meeting company targets. Liaising with product development teams to ensure customer needs are met. Attend trade fairs & exhibitions. Implementation & negotiations of pricing structures & contracts.

  • National Account Manager(Temp contract) at Newell Rubbermaid
    Oct 2014 - Dec 2014 · 3 mos

  • National Account Manager at Koninklijke Jumbo B.V.
    Jun 2012 - Oct 2014 · 2 yrs 5 mos