Business Head - Middle East

Location - Middle East

Job Summary

We are seeking a dynamic and commercially astute Business Head to establish and lead its operations in the Middle East, focusing on FMCG, distribution, and branding. The role involves building Wilmars business from the ground up, launching its consumer brands (edible oils, specialty fats, and other agricultural products), and developing a robust distribution network across the region.

The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in the FMCG sector in the Middle East, a proven track record in distribution and branding, and the ability to drive strategic growth in a competitive market. This role requires an energetic leader from a premier business school with strong commercial acumen and a passion for building sustainable, high-impact businesses.

Key Responsibilities

Market Entry and Business Setup:

- Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to establish Wilmars presence in the Middle East, aligning with the companys integrated agribusiness model.

- Conduct market research to identify opportunities, consumer preferences, and competitive landscapes for edible oils, specialty fats, and other FMCG products.

- Set up legal, operational, and logistical frameworks for Wilmars Middle East operations, including entity formation, regulatory compliance, and supply chain infrastructure.

Brand Launch and Management:

- Lead the launch of Wilmars consumer brands (e.g., branded edible oils, specialty fats) in the Middle East, ensuring alignment with the companys global branding standards.

- Develop and implement branding strategies to build market recognition and consumer loyalty, leveraging Wilmars reputation for quality and sustainability.

- Collaborate with the Corporate Communications Department to create marketing materials, campaigns, and digital content tailored to the Middle East market.

Distribution Network Development:

- Build and manage a distribution network across the Middle East, covering both modern trade (supermarkets, hypermarkets) and general trade channels.

- Establish partnerships with distributors, retailers, and logistics providers to ensure efficient supply chain operations and market penetration.

- Oversee end-to-end supply chain processes, including demand forecasting, inventory management, and delivery operations, to ensure product availability and cost efficiency.

Commercial Leadership:

- Drive revenue growth by identifying and capitalizing on commercial opportunities in the FMCG sector, including B2B and B2C sales.

- Negotiate contracts with key accounts, distributors, and suppliers to maximize margins and ensure alignment with Wilmars operational synergies.

- Monitor market trends, pricing, and profitability to inform strategic decisions and achieve financial targets.

Team Building and Leadership:

- Recruit, train, and lead a high-performing team to support Wilmars Middle East operations, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

- Collaborate with Wilmars global HR team to align recruitment, onboarding, and talent development with the companys core values and objectives.

Sustainability and Compliance:

- Ensure all operations adhere to Wilmars No Deforestation, No Peat, No Exploitation (NDPE) policy and global sustainability standards.

- Maintain compliance with local regulations, including food safety, import/export laws, and corporate governance requirements in the Middle East.

Stakeholder Engagement:

- Build relationships with key stakeholders, including government bodies, industry associations, and local communities, to enhance Wilmars reputation and market access.

- Represent Wilmar in industry events, trade shows, and conferences to promote its brands and establish thought leadership in the Middle East FMCG sector.

Qualifications and Skills

Education:

- MBA or equivalent degree from a premier business school (e.g., IIMs, INSEAD, Harvard, Wharton, or equivalent).

Experience:

- Minimum 10-12 years of experience in the FMCG industry, with at least 5 years in the Middle East market.

- Proven expertise in distribution, branding, and market expansion, ideally in edible oils, consumer products, or related agribusiness sectors.

- Experience in setting up and scaling businesses from scratch in a competitive market.

- Demonstrated success in building distribution networks and managing key accounts in modern and general trade channels.

Skills:

- Strong commercial acumen with a track record of driving revenue growth and profitability.

- Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and manage diverse teams.

- Deep understanding of Middle East market dynamics, consumer behavior, and regulatory frameworks.

- Expertise in branding, marketing, and digital strategies for FMCG products.

- Proficiency in supply chain management, including demand forecasting, inventory control, and logistics.