Our client, one of Zambia’s largest franchisee manufacturing carbonated beverages and non-carbonated beverages is looking to hire talent for the role of Business Development: General Trade. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining strong relationships with retail outlets, ensuring product availability, driving sales performance, and ensuring smooth distribution processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Sales and Distribution Management

• Coordinate and monitor the sales and distribution activities within the assigned area, ensuring that products are available in key retail outlets and that sales targets are met.

Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key retail partners, wholesalers, and distributors to drive business growth.

Stock and Inventory Control

• Ensure optimal stock levels in retail outlets and warehouses, working closely with the supply chain team to manage product deliveries and prevent stock-outs or overstock situations.

Market Monitoring and Reporting

• Collect and analyze market data and sales reports to monitor competitor activity, customer feedback, and sales trends.
• Provide regular reports and updates to management.

Promotional Activities

• Implement in-store promotional strategies and merchandising standards to enhance product visibility and sales.
• Work with the marketing team to execute campaigns effectively.

Training and Support

• Provide training and support to retail staff on product knowledge, sales techniques, and promotional activities.
• Assist in resolving any operational issues that may arise.

Performance Monitoring

• Track and evaluate the performance of sales teams and distributors, offering guidance and feedback to improve productivity.

Customer Service

• Ensure excellent customer service is provided to retail partners, addressing concerns, handling disputes, and providing solutions when necessary.

Compliance and Documentation

• Ensure compliance with company policies, regulatory standards, and safety protocols.
• Maintain accurate records of sales, inventory, and promotional activities.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field is preferred.
• 3-5 years of experience in sales, distribution, or general trade, ideally in a similar industry (FMCG, retail, or distribution).
• Strong understanding of the general trade landscape and distribution channels.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build and maintain long-term relationships with clients and partners.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software.
• Familiarity with market research, sales data analysis, and trade marketing strategies.
• Willingness to travel frequently within the assigned area to meet clients and monitor operations.