Market Development Manager - Germany
Berlin, DE, 10115
Long Description
The Market Development Manager – Germany will be responsible for developing and managing key business relationships with partners and distributors to drive incremental sales growth for Ficosota Food brands in the German market.
This position is based in Germany. We are looking for a proactive, self-driven professional with strong knowledge of the German FMCG retail landscape and proven experience in managing distributor and trade relationships. The role will be responsible for planning, executing, optimizing, and reporting on sales, distribution, and promotional activities, ensuring commercial targets and KPIs are achieved and driving sustainable in-store presence and volume growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Distributor & Channel Management: Manage and develop trade channels and distributor networks across Germany, both directly and indirectly.
- Strategic Planning: Lead the preparation and execution of the annual business plan, pricing strategy, and trade marketing budget for the German market.
- Negotiation & Commercial Execution: Negotiate trade terms, promotional plans, and commercial activities with key customers and distribution partners.
- Sales & Market Analysis: Monitor sales performance and market developments, analyze trade activities, and identify opportunities for continuous business growth.
- Execution & Distribution Monitoring: Monitor product availability, distribution, and execution in target channels, including product quality and quantity checks.
- Budget & Cost Management: Plan, control, and manage operational costs and commercial investments in line with approved budgets.
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Regional Brand Managers and Global Marketing teams to maximize brand performance and ensure strong commercial and marketing alignment.
Mandatory Requirements
- Location: Based in Germany with a valid right to work in Germany.
- Language: Native German speaker or full native-level professional fluency, with strong written and spoken English (minimum C1).
- Market Expertise: In-depth knowledge of the German FMCG retail and trade landscape.
- Distributor Management: Hands-on experience managing, developing, and growing distributor and third-party partner networks in Germany.
- Experience: Minimum 5 years of FMCG experience in a similar Sales, Key Account Management, Trade Marketing, or commercial role.
- Proven track record in sales planning, budget management, commercial negotiations, and execution.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong analytical, organizational, and numerical skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a clear and assertive approach.
- Strong commercial and negotiation capabilities.
- Valid driving license and willingness to travel within Germany and internationally, approximately 40–60 working days per year.
- High initiative, entrepreneurial mindset, and passion for building brands and delivering sustainable business growth.