Head of Promotion and Distribution in the Agri-Food Industry

Main Responsibilities

The position combines commercial responsibilities, operational marketing, and distribution. The main tasks are:

• Develop the product promotion strategy: Implement commercial campaigns (in-store events, promotional actions, distributor partnerships).
• Ensure the management and coordination of distribution: Guarantee the availability of products at points of sale, optimize the supply chain, and manage stock rotation.
• Analyze commercial performance: Monitor indicators (sales, margins, promotional impact) and propose strategic adjustments.
• Supervise field teams: Oversee promoters, merchandisers, and area coordinators.
• Represent the brand to distributors: Negotiate agreements, enhance product visibility, and increase market share.

Required Skills and Qualities

• Commercial Skills: Mastery of negotiation techniques and customer relationship management.
• Operational Marketing: Ability to manage promotional campaigns and optimize product showcasing (merchandising).
• Logistics Knowledge: Understanding the challenges of distribution, the supply chain, and merchandising.
• Managerial Aptitudes: Ability to supervise and motivate a field team.
• Personal Qualities: Organizational skills, analytical mindset, dynamism, and a strong focus on results.

Education to Become a Head of Promotion and Distribution

The position is accessible after 3 to 5 years of post-secondary education (Bac+3 to Bac+5) in the following fields:

• Business / Marketing (Bachelor Vatel, MBA Vatel Business School degree)
• Agri-food with a specialization in marketing & distribution
• Distribution and Retail Management

A specialized MBA in agri-food management or marketing/distribution strategy is an asset for progressing to management positions.

Salary

• Entry-level: €30,000 to €38,000 gross/year
• With experience (5-10 years): €40,000 to €55,000 gross/year
• Senior position or in a large company: up to €65,000 gross/year, with bonuses linked to commercial results.

Possible Career Progression

The Head of Promotion and Distribution can evolve into roles such as:

• Commercial Director (Sales Director)
• Category Manager
• Operational Marketing Manager
• Regional Sales Director
• Distribution Director

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