We are a vibrant and experienced market leader in an exciting and continually developing industry.
We are currently searching for a Sales Manager. In this exciting position, you will work alongside the Sales Managers with a direct report to the Sales Director Western Europe. The Sales Manager will be responsible for managing and developing our distribution network. This role demands a proactive and strategic thinker who can balance the demands of maintaining existing relationships while identifying and pursuing new growth opportunities.
Job Requirements:
- Proven experience (5+ years) in sales management within a B2B or B2C environment in the dairy industry.
- Strong understanding of sales principles, techniques, and strategies.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and overall computer usage skills.
- Ability and willingness to travel as needed to meet with the distribution network and end-users.
- Excellent communication skills (written & verbal).
- A good level of flexibility to travel throughout North Europe.
- A good aptitude for creative problem solving, and an ability to work well within an international team.
- Full clean driving license.
- Fluent English a second language (German/Dutch/Scan lang.) will be an asset.
Job Description – Duties, Roles & Responsibilities
Distribution Network Management
- Oversee and manage the relationships with existing distributors, ensuring they meet sales targets and adhere to company standards.
- Develop and implement strategies to develop the distribution network, including identifying and onboarding new distributors, and removing or replacing existing ones.
- Implement strategic pricing and product distribution according to the sales channel
- Set yearly targets, conduct regular performance reviews, and provide feedback to the distribution network to optimize their performance.
- Conduct regular training sessions to enhance the skills and knowledge of the distribution network.
- Collaborate with the Dairy Performance Team to design a development plan for the key accounts by defining a technical training plan.
- Collaborate with the Customer Success team on accounts management.
Sales & Marketing Strategy Development and Execution
- Collaborate with senior management to develop and execute sales & marketing strategies that align with company goals, through the Regional Sales & Marketing Plan.
- Analyze market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for growth and differentiation.
- Use of sales tools to provide better and more efficient service to customers.
- Execute the actions defined in the Regional Plan, aligned with the other areas of business.
- Create leads for all LoBs (Lines of Business) directly or through the distribution channels.
Customer Relationship Management
- Regular contact with distribution channels and end-users, providing instructions, information, and support.
- Build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key customers within the distribution network.
- Address and resolve any issues or conflicts that may arise with the distribution network.
- Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and support.
Market Analysis and Strategy
- Analyze the market’s potential, track sales trends, and report on competitor activities.
- Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Prepare regular reports on sales activities, distribution network performance, and market conditions.
- Utilize CRM software to manage and document sales activities and customer interactions.
- Provide insights and recommendations based on data analysis (sales, orders, and DP) to improve sales performance.