EXTERNAL SALES FORCE SUPERVISOR at BIC – Nairobi, Kenya

EXTERNAL SALES FORCE SUPERVISOR at BIC – Nairobi, Kenya

For over 75 years, BIC has been at the forefront of creating ingeniously simple and joyful products, becoming an integral part of every heart and home. As a member of our dynamic team, you’ll play a pivotal role in reigniting a beloved brand. We’re committed to reimagining everyday essentials sustainably and responsibly. At BIC, our “roll up your sleeves and get the job done” ethos fosters an environment where self-starters, problem solvers, and innovative thinkers truly thrive. You’ll have the autonomy to shape your career and contribute your unique perspective to make a significant impact on our mission.

JOB SUMMARY

As the External Sales Force Supervisor based in Kenya, your primary mission is to establish, coordinate, and direct our External Sales Force strategies, ensuring the achievement of company objectives. Your role revolves around fostering consistent, profitable growth in sales revenue while effectively managing and controlling sales resources to maximize profitability.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES / TASKS

• Strategic Management: Effectively manage the external agency, ensuring the realization of agreed sales targets, promotional activities, and marketing objectives.
• Team Leadership: Supervise merchandisers, motor sales representatives, vendors, brand ambassadors, and influencers, optimizing their output.
• Planning & Execution: Develop regional sales plans and quotas aligned with business objectives.
• Performance Reporting: Provide comprehensive reports on regional agency sales results.
• Distribution Oversight: Oversee distributor and stockist management.
• Relationship Management: Manage all 3rd party performance and relationships.
• Market Analysis: Analyze regional market trends, identifying growth opportunities by channel and category.
• Store-Level Engagement: Establish sales goals for key stores and communicate them to store management.
• Reporting: Prepare and submit sales reports, offering insights and analysis to senior management.
• Issue Resolution: Inform senior management of any discrepancies or issues concerning agency team goals and results.

Previous/Professional Experience/ Additional Skills & Details

• Flexibility: Willingness to travel within the country as needed.
• Sales Acumen: Developed professional selling relationships with Wholesalers/Franchisers and Retailers.
• Leadership: Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Negotiation Skills: Proficient in negotiation and conflict resolution.
• Business Acumen: Ability to identify new business opportunities and customers.
• People Management: Demonstrated strong people management skills.
• Drive: High energy and passion for achieving personal commitments and company objectives.
• Influence: Ability to influence and persuade others effectively.
• Collaboration: Develop and foster collaborative relationships to achieve company objectives.
• Diversity and Respect: Display respect for others and manage diversity effectively.
• Results-Oriented: Proven ability to produce tangible results.
• Time Management: Exceptional time management skills.
• Mentorship: Proficient in mentoring and coaching.
• Team Player: Strong team player with leadership qualities.
• Retail Expertise: Understanding of Key Account/Modern Mass customer methodology, in-store procedures, and discipline.

QUALIFICATIONS

Academic Background and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required in merchandising, sales, marketing, or related field.
• Preferred 10+ years’ experience in the FMCG industry.
• Basic accounting skills required.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong motivational and communication skills.
• Ability to read, analyze, and generate reports and market analyses.

BIC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to diversity and inclusivity, aiming to hire individuals with various backgrounds and experiences. Our hiring decisions are solely based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status, or similar characteristics.

Please note that BIC is not seeking assistance or accepting unsolicited resumes from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted without a valid written search agreement will be considered the sole property of BIC, with no fees paid in the event of candidate hiring through referral or other means.

EXPERT Tips To Be A Successful Applicant

1. Demonstrate Flexibility: Highlight your willingness to travel within the country, showcasing your adaptability to dynamic work environments.
2. Sales Relationships: Provide examples of your successful relationships with Wholesalers/Franchisers and Retailers, emphasizing your sales prowess.
3. Leadership Stories: Share anecdotes that illustrate your leadership, organization, and communication skills.
4. Negotiation Expertise: Describe instances where your negotiation skills resolved conflicts and led to positive outcomes.
5. Innovation: Offer evidence of your ability to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities.
6. Team Collaboration: Showcase your teamwork and mentorship capabilities, emphasizing your ability to lead by example.
7. Retail Knowledge: Discuss your understanding of retail methodologies and in-store procedures, demonstrating your industry expertise.

Remember, your application is your first impression. Make it count!