Kenya - Kenya: A leading fresh-produce operation in Kenya is seeking an experienced Commercial Sales Manager – Export with a strong background in fresh- produce sales, export markets, and retail account management. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in driving commercial performance, building strong buyer relationships, negotiating supply programs, and positioning fresh produce competitively across international markets. This role requires a results-driven professional with deep market insight, strong negotiation capability, and the ability to align commercial strategy with production and packhouse operations.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Diploma/Degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Marketing, or a related field.
- Proven commercial and sales experience within the fresh-produce sector.
- Export market experience is essential.
- Retail account management experience (international or regional retailers).
- Strong understanding of global market standards, certification requirements, and export protocols.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple deadlines, and prioritise effectively.
- Strong commercial acumen with advanced analytical and planning skills.
- Experience coordinating between farming operations, packhouses, and sales teams.
- Leadership capability with the ability to guide commercial support staff.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Export Sales Management
- Drive all export sales strategies for fresh vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowers.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with international buyers, retailers, processors, wholesalers, and distributors.
- Negotiate pricing, volumes, annual programs, and long-term supply agreements.
- Continuously analyse global market trends, competitor activity, and demand cycles.
- Identify new market opportunities and expand the company’s international footprint.
2. Retail & Customer Engagement
- Manage key retail accounts across local and export markets.
- Ensure all product specifications meet retailer standards and compliance requirements.
- Monitor product performance, quality claims, customer feedback, and category expectations.
- Lead product presentations, market reviews, and commercial discussions with retail buyers.
3. Commercial Operations & Coordination
- Align sales programmes with production, harvesting schedules, and packhouse capacity.
- Work closely with logistics teams to ensure accurate order fulfilment and cost- effective shipments.
- Oversee allocation planning, forecasting, and weekly sales pipelines.
- Ensure seamless communication between commercial, operations, and production teams.
4. Pricing, Forecasting & Reporting
- Conduct weekly and monthly sales planning and performance analysis.
- Develop pricing strategies based on market conditions, supply availability, and customer programs.
- Prepare commercial reports, costings, sales projections, and margin analyses.
- Manage all export documentation and ensure compliance with international trade requirements.
ONLY short-listed candidates will be contacted.
