Job description

We are seeking a Sales Manager to spearhead our sales expansion into Ethiopia. He/she will be a key member of the Expansion team and will work closely with the VP Expansion.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Strategy: In collaboration with the Expansion team in Nairobi, design, implement and manage the national sales, marketing and distribution strategy for Ethiopia
• Account Management: Manage existing distributor relationships/customer accounts and provide support when necessary  
• Business Development: Identify and develop new distribution partnerships targeting wholesalers, retailers, corporations/government institutions and NGOs
• Marketing: In collaboration with the Marketing team in Nairobi, design, implement and manage innovative marketing campaigns to drive sales through existing distribution channels
• Activations & Merchandising: Hire (or outsource), train, and manage an on-the-ground sales activation/merchandising team in line with BURN’s market strategy (live demos, store displays, etc)
• Logistics & Forecasting: Plan an order schedule together with importers/distributors, assist in sales forecasting and track the sales and marketing budget for the country
• Reporting: Produce monthly reports for the senior management team in Nairobi highlighting trends, marketing effectiveness and growth opportunities
• Training: Train partners on BURN’s products
• After-Sales: Set up and manage an after-sales network of repair stations and warranty activations
• Market Research: Assist the Market Research team in Nairobi with any market specific research projects
• Government Relations: Be the key on-the-ground person for BURN working with Government officials with guidance and support from the Expansion team in Nairobi

Desired Experience

• 3 years sales and marketing experience in Ethiopia (E), preferably in consumer durable goods (D)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills (both Amharic and English) (E)
• Managerial experience; strong ability to manage a small team of promoters (E)
• High level of comfort working with wholesale business clients (E)
• Experience designing and managing marketing strategies/campaigns and creating end-consumer demand (E)
• Familiarity with the Ethiopia wholesale/retail market (E)
• Enthusiastic, creative and a desire to ‘sell for good’ (E)
• Strategic thinking; experience developing strategy and/or business plans (D)
• Experience developing new distribution channels (D)
• Strong analysis/number-crunching background (D)