Job Description
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Sales & Marketing Manager to lead our sales and marketing efforts within the food wholesale industry, with a special focus on Japanese food products. The ideal candidate will have an in-depth understanding of the latest trends in the food wholesale sector and possess a proven track record in product stocking, sales, product development, and management. This role requires an individual who is adept at navigating the complexities of the food distribution landscape in Singapore and ASEAN countries, and who can drive our company to new heights by leveraging our core strength in Japanese food products.
Business Development
-Responsible for the company's turnover by managing daily sales to existing Singaporean retail and food service customers. Contribute to the business expansion by ensuring there is no ssues related to product standards or product shortages, and by proactively addressing effective logistics and promotions to the customers.Lead the business expansion by exporting products which country of origin is Singapore.(to all over Japan through the Kokubu Group) New products development and exploration, export arrangement with local supliers.
-Actively pursue new business opportunities and partnerships to expand market presence and report to the senior management of the company as well as Japan HQ.
-Thoroughly understand and analyze trends in food industry in Singapore and Southeast Asia, and contribute to the implementation of the company's long-term growth strategy by making effective proposals to senior management and the headquarters in Japan.
Stocking
-Strategically source, select and negotiate with the managements of Japanese brand owners that show product strength and potential for the Singapore market. This position is expected to utilize his/her extensive experience in the food wholesale industry to analyze the contributing factors of brand success in Singapore market and strategically apply and feedback to the team.
-Develop a comprehensive product portfolio by identifying and sourcing new products and negotiating deals within Singapore and ASEAN countries.
-Ensure a reliable OEM system for the entire group by soucing, establishing, negotiating and maintaining relationships with leading factories in ASEAN for potential OEM opportunities, including conducting audits for new factory sourcing.
Product Development
-By implimenting the professional expertise in Japanese cuisine, innovate and propose new product developments to meet client needs or to introduce new market trends, ensuring authenticity in Japanese cuisine.
-Work closely with manufacturers across ASEAN countries, China, and Japan for product development efforts and negotiate with their senior managements as necessary.
Management
-Ensure the risk management is in place for new sales contracts and contribute to the comapny by optimizing the cash conversion cycle.
-Conduct thorough background checks on potential suppliers, review business plans for management approval, and establish a profitable operational structure.
-Collaborate with the Singapore management team and the head office in Japan to introduce new products from ASEAN countries, ensuring smooth implementation and follow-up.
Job Requirements
At least 5 years of working experience in food wholesale industry as a Sales to CS/CVS/GMS within the last 5 years.
Successful candidate is expected to possess experience both in SEA and Japan.
At least 5 years of professional experience in food wholesale industry, developing Japanese food (processed food and delicatessen) including product design, theme setting, sample tasting, on-site checking of production and ingredient supply.
Working experience in establishing cross-border logistic routes for food products and logistics management. Successful candidate is expected to possess expereince dealing with cross-border logistic between Singapore and Japan.
Experience in reviewing the business/financial conditions of new cross-border business partners at accounting/ finance/ corporate management/sales management department, or at least one professional certification in finance/accounting/CFA/FRM.
Experience of working with food manufacturer in Japan in food wholesale industry.
Able to travel regularly to Japan and ASEAN countries.
Able to respond quickly to issues/problems on logistics and product quality, regardless of business hours or holidays.
Self-motivated, proactive behaviour and conducts constant self-development. Ability to adapt to new environment.
Professional qualifications for the development, production, processing, distribution, planning and marketing of food products would be an advantage.
