Export Sales Senior Manager

The Export Sales Senior Manager will lead the international sales strategy for our Food & Beverages division, driving growth in overseas markets while ensuring alignment with our company's overall objectives. This role is crucial for expanding our global footprint, establishing strong customer relationships, and maximizing revenue through the effective management of export operations.RESPONSIBILITIESStrategic Planning and Market Expansion: Develop and implement comprehensive export sales strategies aligned with company goals, including market entry plans for new territories focused on frozen French Fries demand.Conduct market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, customer needs, and competitive landscapes in the global frozen food industry.Pipeline new business opportunities by prospecting international buyers, distributors, and retailers, with a focus on high-volume markets for potato products.Set and monitor annual sales targets, forecasts, and budgets to ensure profitable growth, adjusting strategies based on market dynamics like supply chain disruptions or tariff changes.Sales and Business Development: Lead negotiations for export contracts, pricing, and terms with international clients, ensuring compliance with export regulations, customs requirements, and food safety standards.Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including distributors, importers, foodservice chains (QSRs), and retail specializing in frozen goods.Drive new customer acquisition through participation in industry trade shows (e.g., Anuga, SIAL, or Gulfood), networking events, and targeted sales campaigns.Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., production, logistics, quality control & marketing) to customize product offerings, such as private-label French fries or specialized cuts, to meet regional preferences. Team Leadership and Account Management:Manage and mentor a team of export sales managers and representatives, providing training on product knowledge & sales techniques.Oversee existing accounts to foster growth, conduct regular business reviews, and resolve issues related to product quality, delivery, or claims.Utilize CRM tools to track sales pipelines, customer interactions, and performance metrics, ensuring accurate forecasting and reporting to stakeholders. Compliance and Risk Management:Ensure all export activities comply with international trade laws, including export documentation, labeling requirements for frozen foods, and certifications like Halal or Kosher for specific markets.Monitor global economic factors, such as currency fluctuations, trade barriers, or raw material costs and mitigate risks to maintain supply chain efficiency.REQUIREMENTSBachelor’s degree in business administration, Marketing, International Trade, Food Science, or a related field; an MBA or advanced degree is preferred.Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in export sales within the food industry, with at least 5-8 years in a leadership role, preferable on frozen products (experience in potato products or French fries manufacturing is highly desirable).Proven track record of achieving sales growth in international markets, including experience in contract negotiations, and managing huge export portfolios.Familiarity with export logistics, including shipping frozen goods, cold chain management, and compliance with regulations from bodies like the USDA, EU Food Safety Authority, or equivalent.Willingness to travel extensively.