New Business Development Manager WECA at Kimberly-Clark

We are looking for an ambitious and energetic New Business Development Manager to help us expand our presence across West, East and Central Africa. The suitable candidate will be at the front of identifying opportunities and developing best ways for KC to succeed in targeted markets.

The goal is to drive sustainable market share, volume and financial growth through boosting sales and forging strong relationships with partners.

Priority markets are Ghana, Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo and Ethiopia.

Key responsibilities

• Identify the best way for KC to enter targeted markets including regulatory issues, competition profile and monetary / fiscal requirements.
• Develop a growth strategy focused both on market share and financial gain
• Prospect for potential new partners (distributors) and turn this into increased business.
• Build long-term relationships with new and existing customers
• Set up meetings between potential Partner’s decision makers and KC management team.
• Plan approaches and pitches. Work with management team to develop proposals that speaks to both KC’s and the partner’s needs, concerns, and objectives.
• Participate in pricing recommendation and decisions

Requirements

• Proven working experience as a new business development manager, senior sales executive or a relevant role
• Proven sales track record
• Business management competencies
• Cross-functional knowledge/experience
• FMCG understanding/knowledge
• Proficiency in MS Office  
• Proficiency in English, French is an added advantage
• Market knowledge across Sub-Saharan markets
• Communication and negotiation skills
• Ability to build rapport
• Time management and planning skills
• BSc/BA in business administration, sales or relevant field

Experience

The position requires tertiary qualification (commercial base essential), a minimum of 7 years’ experience, with a minimum of 3 years at a senior level within Customer, Channel, Marketing or Finance.
Proven track record in results delivery and people leadership.

Other Skills and Qualifications

Networking, Persuasion, Research, Writing, Closing Skills, Motivation for Sales, Prospecting Skills, Sales Planning, Identification of Customer Needs and Challenges, Territory Management, Market Knowledge, Meeting Sales Goals, Professionalism, CRM, and Microsoft Office.

Candidates who have had first hand work experience in Ethiopia, Democratic Republic of the Congo or Angola will have an added advantage.

Reporting Line and Key contacts

The Business Development Manager will report directly to the General Manager, WECA. Other key interfaces will be:

• WECA Leadership Team
• Local Business & Functional teams
• Third Party Business Partners and Suppliers & Service Providers
• Customers
• Trade Associations
• Media Relations

Government officials (where appropriate)