Our client, in the manufacturing industry (FMCG) is looking for an experienced General Trade Manager to join their team. The General Trade Manager is in charge for the management of the Demand Fulfilment activities for the general trade, including, setting targets, managing budgets, performance, reporting, etc. for the achievement of the set distribution and profitability goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and lead implementation of the General Trade (GT) sales strategy working in close collaboration with the Head Demand Fulfilment and the Demand Creation team.
- Accountable for the sales planning, performance, and results for GT by developing and managing distribution sales channels.
- Establish and drive implementation of sales function goals, work plans and operating procedures in line with the company strategic and operational plans.
- Manage and provide strategic direction for continuous improvement in people management processes and systems for the department.
- Actively participate in the sales forecasting for all the company products and share proposal to enhance volume and value growth strategies.
- Design, review and maintain route to market strategies, region and route mapping for optimal resource productivity and route efficiency.
- Establish a clear understanding of the GT demand fulfilment strategy across the Company and conduct continuous review of resources/territory to ensure effective utilization and ROI.
- Develop and/or maintain and improve business relations with all customers that promote win-win situations for all parties.
- Develop and lead the implementation of distributor improvement programs focused on improving sales revenue by identifying target accounts, their distribution requirements and developing penetration strategies to increase market share.
- Support the planning and execution of marketing activities across the distribution chain to target different clusters of customers.
- Monitor sales forecasts and demand planning regularly to meet or exceed service level, forecast accuracy and inventory targets. Ensure products are always well stocked and available to the customer. 12. Conduct performance business reviews and coordinate cross-functionally to reconcile significant variances and refine the forecast model.
- Prepare regular reports on sales and business performance and interpret short- and long-term effects on sales strategies in operating profit.
- Supervise the Areas Sales Managers, facilitate performance management and support staff through training, mentorship, and coaching.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in business administration and /or sales and marketing
- Minimum 7 years' experience in sales management with minimum 4 years' experience in FMCG.
- Prior experience and ability to assimilate sales strategy and yield results.
- Advanced computer skills including MS Word and MS Excel, MS PowerPoint and proficient use of the internet and email.
- Proficiency in Sales Automation systems.
- Working knowledge of Customer engagement.
- Knowledge and experience in Shopper Marketing
- Strong planning and organization skills with ability to manage multiple projects at different stages of development.
- Creative and analytical thinker with strong problem-solving ability.
- A strong business acumen with ability to grasp figures., networking skills
- Strategic thinker with ability to craft clear, compelling recommendations supported by strong analysis and business logic.
- Good judgment and reasoning skills with the ability to anticipate issues and resolve them based on sound business judgement.
- Effective stakeholder management with ability to win the hearts and minds of buyers/merchants and other stakeholders.
- Ability to adapt, thrive and eagerness to operate within a dynamic and evolving environment. 8.Customer oriented keen to delivering results and meeting customer expectations.
- Strong and effective communication skills including verbal, written and presentation.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and cultivate relationships; build consensus and influence business partners.
- Self-starter with ability to work independently; high sense of urgency and entrepreneurial spirit.
- Good leadership and people-management skills with ability to develop and drive high performing teams through coaching and mentorship.
- An energetic, forward-thinking individual with high ethical standards and an appropriate professional image