Position: Regional Sales Manager - MENA & India
Location: Dubai, UAE (with extensive travel across the region)
Industry: FMCG/Fresh Produce/Consumer Goods
Overview:
Our client is a rapidly growing international business seeking a dynamic and commercially savvy Regional Sales Manager – MENA & India. This leadership role is responsible for driving regional growth through superior retail execution, brand development, sales strategy, and distributor partnerships. With oversight of operations across the Middle East, India, and adjacent markets, the ideal candidate will bring a proven track record in sales leadership, market expansion, and cross-functional collaboration within the FMCG or fresh produce industry.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategy & Market Expansion
- Develop and execute a long-term regional strategy and annual business plans in alignment with global commercial objectives.
- Oversee full-market operations with a strong focus on sales, trade marketing, brand growth, and partner development.
- Drive success across Core MENA markets, with a targeted strategy for growth in KSA and India, and exploratory entry into emerging markets such as Egypt and Southern Europe.
Sales Leadership & Revenue Growth
- Lead the regional sales agenda through hands-on engagement with Key Account Managers and distribution partners.
- Take ownership of sales targets, revenue generation, and market share growth across assigned territories.
- Build and execute detailed Key Account Management plans and partnership agreements.
- Develop and implement retail strategies that optimize in-store presence, assortment, and brand visibility.
Team Management & Talent Development
- Lead and mentor a high-performing regional sales team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Manage performance reviews, development plans, and succession planning in collaboration with HR.
- Address performance gaps proactively and ensure alignment with corporate values and standards.
Operational & Budget Oversight
- Manage regional budgets, monitor expenditures, and contribute to pricing strategies within agreed commercial parameters.
- Map and enhance supply chain value capture, including operational oversight of in-market packing (notably in India, KSA or UAE).
Market Intelligence & Compliance
- Conduct ongoing market analysis and competitor benchmarking to inform strategic decisions.
- Stay current with regional regulations and compliance standards, ensuring all operations reflect best practice and ethical conduct.
Relationship Management
- Cultivate strong relationships with key distributors, retailers, and industry stakeholders to strengthen brand positioning.
- Work cross-functionally with marketing and product teams to deliver effective go-to-market campaigns and in-store execution.
Reporting & Performance Monitoring
- Define and track performance metrics including sell-out, market penetration, and ROI on campaigns.
- Provide regular performance updates and actionable insights to senior leadership.
Key Requirements:
- Minimum 10 years of experience in Sales, Marketing, or Business Development, with at least 5 years in a leadership role across international markets.
- Background in the global produce, fresh food, or broader FMCG sectors is essential.
- Proven ability to manage distributor/agent relationships and direct customer engagements.
- Demonstrated success in driving growth and managing complex key accounts.
- Strong project management and commercial negotiation skills.
- Excellent presentation, reporting, and communication capabilities.
- High IT literacy with experience using CRM and sales analytics platforms.
- Fluent in English; Arabic language skills are highly advantageous.
- Willingness and ability to travel extensively across the Gulf region and India.
- Results-oriented mindset and ability to work independently in a remote capacity.