Sonia Foods Industries is one of the leading tomato products processing factories in West Africa. Its headquarter is located in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, KM 39. The company produces Tomato Mix, Peppe & Onion Tomato Seasoning Mix, Curry Powder and Thyme Leaves, under the brand name Sonia. The factory is located in Ikorodu Shagamu Express Road, Onigbagbe/Sotubo Village, Shagamu Ogun State, Nigeria.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Modern Trade Specialist

Location: Lagos
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

• The Modern Trade Sales Manager is responsible for driving sales and revenue growth through modern trade channels, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty retail chains.
• In addition, this role leverages HORECA (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafés) experience to expand the company's presence in premium foodservice channels.
• The candidate will lead a team of sales representatives and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure brand visibility, product availability, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities
Modern Trade Channel Management:

• Develop and implement strategic sales plans to achieve revenue targets across modern trade accounts.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key accounts, including buyers, category managers, and retail partners.
• Negotiate annual contracts, promotional agreements, and trade terms to optimize sales and profitability.

HORECA Channel Development:

• Identify and secure partnerships within the HORECA segment to drive incremental sales.
• Leverage existing HORECA networks to introduce products and execute targeted sales campaigns.
• Collaborate with marketing to develop tailored solutions for HORECA clients, including menu placements and product showcases.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of sales representatives and merchandisers.
• Set performance goals, monitor team progress, and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Provide training and coaching on product knowledge, sales techniques, and market trends.

Sales Planning & Execution:

• Analyze market trends, competitor activity, and customer feedback to adjust strategies.
• Oversee sales forecasting, inventory management, and demand planning.
• Drive in-store activation programs, including promotions, point-of-sale (POS) displays, and sampling.

Collaboration & Reporting:

• Work closely with the marketing, supply chain, and finance teams to ensure smooth execution of sales plans.
• Prepare and present regular sales reports, including key performance indicators (KPIs), sales forecasts, and budget utilization.

Key Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field (MBA preferred).
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in sales within the FMCG sector, with at least 4-6 years in modern trade.
  • Proven track record of success in the HORECA segment.

Skills:

• Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, and CRM systems.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic Thinking & Planning
• Result-Oriented & Proactive Approach
• Customer-Centric Mindset
• Strong Problem-Solving Skills
• Cross-Functional Collaboration.

Application Closing Date
31st December, 2024.