Business Unit Manager - Traditional Trade

Oversee downtrade distribution channels to maximize growth opportunities.

Overview: As a Business Unit Manager specializing in Traditional Trade, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing and driving the growth of our company's traditional trade segment. Traditional trade typically refers to sales channels such as local retailers, neighborhood stores, and wholesalers that are crucial in many markets.

Responsibilities:

1. Strategy Development:

   • Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve sales targets and expand market share within the traditional trade segment.
   • Analyze market trends, competitor activities, and consumer behavior to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.

2. Sales and Performance Management:

   • Lead a team of sales representatives and supervisors responsible for traditional trade channels.
   • Set clear sales objectives and KPIs, monitor performance, and provide guidance and support to ensure targets are met or exceeded.
   • Develop and execute effective sales strategies, promotional activities, and trade marketing initiatives to maximize revenue and profitability.

3. Relationship Management:

   • Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, distributors, and stakeholders within the traditional trade network.
   • Negotiate terms of agreements and contracts, ensuring favorable outcomes for the company while maintaining strong partnerships.

4. Market Expansion and Penetration:

   • Identify new business opportunities and potential markets for traditional trade expansion.
   • Develop and implement entry strategies for new territories, ensuring effective distribution and market penetration.

5. Budgeting and Financial Management:

   • Develop annual budgets and forecasts for the traditional trade segment.
   • Monitor expenses, analyze financial performance, and take corrective actions as needed to ensure profitability and cost efficiency.

6. Cross-functional Collaboration:

   • Collaborate closely with marketing, supply chain, and finance teams to align strategies and ensure seamless execution of initiatives.
   • Provide insights and inputs for product development and marketing campaigns based on traditional trade insights.

Requirements:

• Proven experience as a Business Unit Manager or similar role, preferably within the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) industry or related sectors.
• Strong understanding of traditional trade channels and dynamics, with a track record of driving sales growth and achieving targets.
• Excellent leadership and managerial skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a high-performing team.
• Strategic thinker with analytical abilities and a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills, capable of building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or a related field; MBA or relevant advanced degree is a plus.