Modern Trade Manager at Ascentech Services Limited

Job Overview

• The Modern Trade Manager will be responsible for driving sales growth, profitability, and brand visibility across the modern trade channel, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience chains, and e-commerce platforms.
• The role requires strong expertise in key account management, strategic planning, and in-store execution, with a focus on delivering commercial targets and strengthening relationships with major retail partners.

Key Responsibilities
Strategy & Planning:

• Develop and execute modern trade sales strategies to achieve revenue, volume, and profitability targets.
• Analyze sales performance, market trends, and competitor activities to identify growth opportunities.
• Develop pricing, promotion, and trade investment strategies to maximize ROI.
• Prepare and manage the annual modern trade budget, ensuring cost efficiency and optimal resource allocation.

Key Account Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key retail accounts and decision-makers.
• Negotiate Joint Business Plans (JBPs), trading terms, listing fees, and promotional agreements.
• Drive business growth within existing accounts while identifying and onboarding new modern trade partners.
• Monitor account performance and implement strategies to improve sales and profitability.

Execution & In-Store Excellence:

• Ensure excellent in-store execution, including planogram compliance, product visibility, and promotional effectiveness.
• Oversee merchandising standards and ensure optimal shelf availability and product placement.
• Conduct regular store visits and market audits to track execution and competitor activities.

Team Leadership:

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of sales representatives, merchandisers, and promoters.
• Set performance targets and monitor team productivity to ensure delivery of business objectives.
• Provide ongoing training and performance feedback to build a high-performing team.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with marketing, supply chain, and finance teams to ensure alignment and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate with supply chain to ensure product availability and timely replenishment.
• Partner with finance on invoicing, credit control, and collections to maintain healthy cash flow.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
• 5–7 years’ experience in FMCG sales, with strong exposure to the dairy category preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years in Modern Trade or Key Account Management.
• Proven track record of achieving sales targets and driving business growth in modern trade channels.

Competencies:

• Strong negotiation and influencing skills
• Solid commercial and financial acumen (P&L management)
• Advanced analytical and data interpretation skills
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills
• Strong leadership and team management capability
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.