Sales Director Italy (FMCG)

Job Description:

The Sales Director will lead the commercial and strategic development of the Italian market, driving sustainable growth and strengthening the company’s presence in the modern channel (GDO). This role will play a key part in accelerating sales performance, expanding the customer base, and building a high-performing commercial structure in one of the company’s priority European markets. This is a highly commercial and strategic position, combining hands-on business development with team leadership and market expansion.

The role is home-office based.

Responsibilities:

- Define and execute the commercial strategy for Italy, aligned with regional and global objectives.
- Drive strong sales growth, with a clear focus on achieving and exceeding targets.
- Develop and expand key customer relationships within the modern trade/GDO channel (retailers, supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores).
- Identify and acquire new business opportunities, increasing market penetration and brand presence.
- Manage and develop the existing customer portfolio and regional agent network.
- Lead and motivate the local team, fostering a high-performance and collaborative culture.
- Coordinate and optimize the performance of an external network of commercial agents across the country.
- Analyze market trends, competitors, and customer needs to adapt strategies and identify growth opportunities.
- Plan, manage, and control the sales budget, ensuring profitability and efficiency.
- Collaborate closely with headquarters in Spain on pricing, logistics, and commercial initiatives.

Requirements:

- University degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
- Proven experience in FMCG within the Italian market, ideally in food related categories.
- Strong background and knowledge of the GDO channel.
- Solid track record in business development and client acquisition.
- Highly commercial profile with strong negotiation and influencing skills.
- Strategic mindset combined with a hands-on, results-driven approach.
- Experience managing teams and external sales networks.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to build relationships with key decision-makers.
- Proactive, dynamic, and goal-oriented personality.
- Fluent in English and Italian is a must; Spanish is a plus.
- Full availability to travel.
- Based in Northern Italy is highly preferred.

Company Description:

Our client is a leading European international company in the FMCG industry, recognized for its strong international presence, product innovation, and continuous growth across global markets. With operations in multiple countries, the company is committed to excellence, customer focus, and long-term partnerships, offering a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment.

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