Job Description

 
Our client is a Japanese company with more than 200 years of history. It has two divisions: Food for human consumption and pet food. In Japan, they have established itself as a leader in the pet food industry, thus also becoming a leader in sales. Thanks to the growth that the company has had in recent years, it became the No.1 brand of pet food in Japan and is also expanding internationally to make pets and their owners around the world happy.
They are looking for a Regional Manager to lead and expand its operations across the Balkan region. This role is responsible for developing and executing sales strategies, managing regional sales teams, and strengthening market presence. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in sales leadership, market analysis, and relationship management with key distributors and retailers in the pet food or FMCG industry. This position is instrumental in driving their growth and market expansion across the region.
Objective/Purpose: 
The primary goal of this position is to develop, maintain, and strengthen long-term relationships with key retailers, distributors, and partners across the Balkan region, ensuring brand consistency, market growth, and profitability. The role requires a strategic approach to sales, marketing, and operational execution to enhance their presence in the market.
Principal Roles and Responsibilities:
•  Sales & Market Expansion
・    Drive retail sales growth through strong collaboration with local partners.
・    Analyze sales performance, retail reports, and market trends to identify opportunities.
・    Set and achieve sales targets for the region, ensuring consistent revenue growth.
・    Develop and execute strategic marketing and promotional activities to enhance brand awareness.
•  Marketing & Brand Management
・    Plan and implement brand and communication strategies aligned with corporate goals.
・    Oversee regional marketing campaigns, including in-store promotions and digital initiatives.
・    Conduct market research and consumer analysis to drive data-driven decision-making.
・    Ensure compliance with brand guidelines and intellectual property management. •  Distributor & Retail Management
・    Build and maintain strong relationships with key retailers, supermarkets, and distributors.
・    Negotiate contract terms, pricing, and promotional agreements with key accounts.
・    Ensure quality and service consistency across the region.
・    Support new product launches and coordinate related marketing efforts.
•  Operations & Business Development
・    Coordinate and oversee participation in pet food industry expositions and trade events.
・    Plan and present long-term business development strategies to headquarters.
・    Monitor competitor activities and provide market intelligence reports.
Skills Required:  
・    7 - 10 years of experience in the pet food industry is a must (FMCG experience is a plus).
・    Strong negotiation and relationship management skills, especially with distributors and supermarket buyers.
・    Proven ability to develop and execute sales and marketing strategies.
・    Strong analytical skills with experience in sales data reporting and market research.
・    Self-motivated and independent, with excellent problem-solving skills.
・    High energy level, interpersonal skills, and a results-driven mindset.
・    Fluent in English (business-level proficiency in writing and speaking).
・    Bachelor’s degree required (Business or Marketing degree preferred).
・    Willingness to travel within the Balkan region for business.