We’re hiring: Sales Manager Trading & Industry
FMCG / Food Industry | International Sales | Business Development
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About the company
Our client is a leading European FMCG food group with a turnover exceeding €3 billion and more than 9,500 employees across 34 production sites in six countries. As one of Belgium’s largest food companies, the organization holds a strong position within the top segment of the food industry, with Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium as its core markets.
Through continuous investment, innovation, and a strong long-term vision, the company has significantly strengthened its market position in recent years and continues to evolve in line with changing consumer expectations and market dynamics.
To further support its international growth ambitions, the company is currently looking for a Sales Manager Trading & Industry.
Mission
As Sales Manager Trading & Industry, you are responsible for the sale of by-products to international trading and industrial markets. Your mission is to achieve revenue and profitability targets by developing and executing effective sales strategies, strengthening customer relationships, and identifying new market opportunities.
You operate in a dynamic international market environment, working closely with internal departments such as Marketing, Supply Chain, and Production, while maintaining strong relationships with external customers and partners. This role requires a strong commercial mindset, analytical capabilities, and excellent negotiation skills. Frequent customer visits and participation in international trade fairs are part of the role.
Key Responsibilities
Implementation of Sales Policy
* Monitor market developments, customer needs, and competitor activities.
* Translate the sales strategy into target-oriented budgets, forecasts, and cost estimates.
* Analyze sales figures and closely monitor turnover, margins, and profitability.
* Adjust commercial action plans where necessary to achieve business objectives.
* Prepare and present periodic reports on commercial results, market developments, and category performance.
Achievement of Sales Plans
* Drive the sales of products within assigned international market segments.
* Maintain and strengthen existing customer relationships while actively acquiring new business opportunities.
* Advise customers on pricing strategies, promotions, and order management.
* Negotiate commercial agreements and pricing conditions within established margins.
* Ensure accurate and timely administrative follow-up of commercial transactions.
Customer Advisory & Relationship Management
* Provide expert advice regarding product applications and promotional opportunities.
* Deliver product information and ongoing commercial support to customers.
* Build sustainable, long-term, and trust-based customer relationships.
* Strengthen customer satisfaction, loyalty, and strategic partnerships.
Market & Competitor Analysis
* Identify relevant market trends, industry developments, and competitor activities.
* Translate market insights into actionable commercial recommendations.
* Contribute actively to data-driven decision-making processes and commercial strategies.
Complaint Handling & Follow-Up
* Investigate and resolve customer complaints in line with internal procedures and quality standards.
* Coordinate with management regarding complex customer situations and agreed action plans.
* Ensure accurate reporting and follow-up of complaints within internal systems.
Additional Contributions
* Represent the company at international trade fairs, customer meetings, and commercial events.
* Support internal collaboration and contribute to related administrative tasks.
* Actively contribute to the commercial visibility and positioning of the organization within the market.
Candidate Profile
Education
* Master’s degree or equivalent level of thinking and working.
Languages
* Fluent in Dutch, French, and English (essential for international market coverage).
Experience & Technical Skills
* Proven experience in sales within FMCG, food, trading, or industrial markets.
* Strong understanding of sales processes, commercial strategy, and market dynamics.
* Experience in developing and implementing sales plans, budgeting, and forecasting.
* Skilled in commercial negotiations and contract management.
Competencies
* Strong commercial drive and results-oriented mindset.
* Excellent relationship builder and networker with an international perspective.
* Analytical and strategic thinker capable of translating market insights into concrete actions.
* High level of integrity and reliability in interactions with customers and internal stakeholders.
* Hands-on, proactive, and entrepreneurial attitude.
What’s in it for you?
* A key commercial role within a financially strong and internationally leading FMCG food group.
* The opportunity to operate in an international trading environment with direct impact on revenue and profitability.
* A high level of autonomy and ownership in managing and developing your markets.
* Exposure to strategic decision-making and close collaboration with cross-functional teams such as Marketing, Supply Chain, and Production.
* The chance to further develop your negotiation skills and international commercial expertise.
* A dynamic, performance-driven organization that continuously invests in growth and innovation.
* An attractive salary package aligned with your experience, complemented by competitive fringe benefits.
Batenborch International is your international partner in Sales, Marketing, Human Resources and Digital Recruitment, Executive Search and Interim Management across Europe & Africa. Performing by a candidate-driven, pro-active process. xphnsxz Operating within the branches Consumer, Industry, Services, ICT or Healthcare.