Task Robots - Export Manager - FMCG Domain

Job Description:

Location: India (with international travel).

Experience: 5-10 years in rice / agri-commodity exports.

Reporting to: Founder / Business Head.

Role Overview:

- We are launching a new premium rice brand and are looking for an experienced Export Manager to lead international sales and business development across Gulf countries.

- The role will focus on building importer/distributor networks, closing export deals, ensuring compliance, and scaling export revenue.

International Sales Strategy & Business Development (Gulf Focus):

- Develop and execute export strategies for GCC markets (UAE, KSA, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain).

- Identify and generate qualified leads through market research, trade databases, cold outreach, referrals, and industry networks.

- Target importers, wholesalers, distributors, retail chains, HORECA buyers, and private label partners.

- Build and manage a strong sales pipeline to achieve monthly and quarterly export targets.

- Utilize personal industry connections to accelerate market entry and deal closures.

Lead Qualification & Deal Conversion:

- Evaluate leads based on volume potential, payment capability, and market fit.

Prepare and present:

- Product catalogues (Basmati / Non-Basmati / Specialty rice).

- Pricing structures.

- Samples and specifications.

Negotiate commercial terms including:

- Pricing.

- Payment terms (Advance, LC, DP).

- Incoterms (FOB, CIF, CNF).

- Shipment schedules and packaging requirements.

- Close export contracts and convert buyers into long-term partners.

- Ensure compliance with destination country regulations and buyer specifications.

Client Relationship Management & Account Growth:

- Build strong, long-term relationships with international buyers and distributors.

- Coordinate with production, QA, and logistics teams for timely and quality order execution.

- Handle buyer queries, claims, and complaints professionally.

- Identify repeat orders, upselling opportunities, and new SKUs for existing clients.

- Maintain 80%+ client retention rate through proactive follow-ups and service excellence.

Market Presence & International Networking:

Represent the brand at international trade fairs and expos such as:

- Gulfood.

- Saudi Food Expo.

- World Food India.

Travel to Gulf markets for:

- Client meetings.

- Distributor onboarding.

- Market intelligence gathering.

- Monitor rice market trends, pricing movements, competitor activity, and regulatory updates.

- Develop relationships with freight forwarders, CHAs, export councils, and trade bodies.

Export Documentation & Compliance:

Coordinate end-to-end export operations including:

- Shipping schedules.

- Documentation.

- Customs clearance.

Ensure compliance with:

- FSSAI.

- APEDA.

- Phytosanitary certificates.

- COO.

- Destination country food regulations.

Manage export documentation:

- Commercial Invoice.

- Packing List.

- Bill of Lading.

- Health & Phytosanitary Certificates.

- Liaise with banks for LC handling, remittances, and foreign exchange documentation.

Strategic Planning & Performance Reporting:

- Develop quarterly and annual export growth plans.

Track and report KPIs:

- Export revenue.

- Lead-to-conversion ratio.

- Client acquisition.

- Order fulfillment efficiency.

Provide market feedback for:

- Product development.

- Packaging formats.

- Pricing and positioning strategies.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

- Lead Conversion Rate: 20-25%.

- New Client Acquisition: 6-10 new Gulf buyers annually.

- Order Fulfillment: 95%+ on-time and quality adherence.

- Client Retention: 80%+ repeat business.

- Market Penetration: Strong distributor presence across at least 34 GCC countries.

Preferred Candidate Profile:

- Proven experience in rice or agri-commodity exports.

- Strong network of Gulf importers and distributors.

- Hands-on knowledge of export documentation and trade compliance.

- Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills.

- Willingness to travel internationally.