Junior Sales Manager - Cocoa 1

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Sales Manager to lead and expand our cocoa business.

In this role, you will be responsible for developing strategic relationships with key clients, driving revenue growth, and delivering innovative cocoa solutions tailored to customer needs. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless execution of sales strategies and contribute to the long-term success of the business. You will report directly to Sales Director.

Sales Strategy and Execution

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy to achieve revenue and profitability targets in Key European markets.
• Monitor competitor activities and market trends to stay ahead and differentiate the company’s offerings.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities while maintaining and growing relationships with existing clients.
• Drive strategies to capture and expand market share.
• Negotiate and close contracts, ensuring alignment with business objectives and customerexpectations.
• Analyze market trends, customer needs, and competitor activities to refine sales approaches.
• Collaborate with the Product Line Management (PLM) and marketing teams to align product offerings with market demand.
• Work closely with Technical and Customer Solutions teams to run projects in your markets for future growth of business.

Customer Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, serving as their primary point of contact.
• Provide exceptional customer service by understanding client needs and delivering tailored cocoa solutions.
• Conduct regular business reviews with clients to assess satisfaction and identify opportunities for growth.
• Act as a trusted advisor, offering insights into cocoa trends, sustainability initiatives, and market developments.
• Actively engage with clients to understand their long-term business goals and challenges, aligning solutions to meet their evolving needs.

Team Leadership and Collaboration

• Lead and mentor junior sales team members, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Work closely with supply chain, CSC, and quality teams to ensure timely delivery and product quality.
• Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and conferences to promote the cocoa business

Reporting and Analysis

• Monitor sales performance metrics and prepare regular reports for senior management.
• Use data-driven insights to identify gaps and opportunities in the market.
• Manage budgets and forecasts for the region, ensuring alignment with overall business goals.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Food Science, Economics, or a related field.
• Proven experience (min 5 – 8 yrs) in B2B sales within cocoa or food ingredients industry.
• Strong understanding of the cocoa value chain, including sourcing, sustainability, and product applications.
• Exceptional negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to analyze market data and translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Proficiency in CRM tools and MS Office Suite.
• Fluent in English; additional European languages are a plus.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced and dynamic business environment.
• Passion for selling and delighting customers.