Role Overview :

This pivotal role involves spearheading the strategic development and operational execution of Modern Trade channels across Nigeria. The Channel Head will be instrumental in defining market penetration strategies, forging robust partnerships with key retail chains, and driving aggressive sales growth within this critical segment.

Day-to-day, you will lead a dedicated team, engage directly with top-tier Modern Trade clients, and collaborate extensively with internal marketing, supply chain, and finance departments to ensure seamless execution and optimal market impact. Your leadership will directly translate into expanded market share, enhanced brand visibility, and significant revenue contributions, shaping the company's footprint in one of Africa's most dynamic markets.

Key Responsibilities :

- Develop and execute comprehensive Modern Trade strategies for the Nigerian market, aligning with overall business objectives to maximize market share and revenue growth.

- Identify, onboard, and nurture strategic relationships with key Modern Trade accounts, including major retail chains and hypermarkets, to expand distribution footprint and secure prime shelf space.

- Drive aggressive sales targets and profitability within the Modern Trade channel, implementing effective promotional activities and bespoke trade marketing initiatives to boost product off-take and consumer engagement.

- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing Modern Trade sales team, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and customer-centricity to achieve departmental goals.

- Conduct thorough market analysis, competitor benchmarking, and consumer insights gathering to identify new opportunities and adapt strategies for sustained competitive advantage in the dynamic Nigerian retail landscape.

- Manage the Modern Trade channel's P&L, optimizing trade spend, negotiating favorable terms with partners, and ensuring efficient resource allocation to achieve financial objectives and improve profitability.

Required Skillset :

- Proven expertise in Modern Trade channel management, strategic account planning, sales forecasting, and trade marketing within a fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) or similar industry, with a deep understanding of the Nigerian retail landscape.

- Exceptional negotiation and influencing skills, adept at building and maintaining robust relationships with key stakeholders internally and externally. Strong presentation and communication abilities to articulate complex strategies and secure buy-in.

- A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field from a reputable institution is essential; an MBA is highly desirable.

- Demonstrated ability to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced international markets, particularly within emerging economies like Nigeria, with a strong sense of cultural awareness and adaptability to diverse business environments.