Senior Area Sales Manager - Food

Role Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Senior Area Sales Manager to lead our food division operations across Nigeria. In this role, you will be the primary architect of our market presence, responsible for driving volume growth, expanding distribution footprints, and ensuring brand visibility across the General Trade landscape. You will work closely with regional distributors, retail partners, and internal cross-functional teams to translate business strategy into on-ground execution. By optimizing supply chain efficiency and fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, you will play a pivotal role in scaling our market share and establishing our food portfolio as a household staple in the region.

Key Responsibilities:

- Execute comprehensive sales strategies to achieve monthly and annual volume targets, ensuring consistent revenue growth across the assigned territory.

- Manage and mentor a high-performing sales team, providing the coaching necessary to enhance field productivity and market penetration.

- Strengthen the distribution network by onboarding and managing high-potential partners to ensure product availability and optimal stock levels.

- Analyze market trends and competitor activities to provide actionable insights that inform pricing, promotion, and product placement decisions.

- Drive excellence in General Trade operations by monitoring outlet coverage, merchandising standards, and trade scheme implementation to maximize customer engagement.

Required Skillset:

- Demonstrated expertise in managing complex FMCG sales operations, with a deep understanding of the nuances of the Nigerian General Trade market.

- Proven ability to build and sustain long-term relationships with distributors and retail stakeholders through effective negotiation and conflict resolution.

- Strong analytical mindset capable of interpreting sales data to forecast demand and identify growth opportunities within diverse geographical zones.

- Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to motivate field teams and drive accountability in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.

- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, essential for collaborating with internal leadership and external business partners.

- A Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field, complemented by a minimum of 5 - 8 years of progressive experience in the food or beverage industry.

- High degree of adaptability to on-site work environments, with a willingness to travel extensively to oversee regional operations and market activation.