Sales Manager Cocoa - Italy

Olam Food IngredientsThe RoleWe are seeking an experienced and results-driven Senior Sales Manager to lead and expand our cocoa business in Italy.In this role, you will be responsible for developing strategic relationships with key clients (industrial chocolate, confectionery, bakery, etc.), driving revenue growth, and delivering innovative cocoa solutions tailored to customer needs. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless execution of sales strategies and contribute to the long-term success of the business.As a part of ofi, you will engage in a role that intersects with sustainability and innovation. Our global footprint means you will have the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients and products. Unlike other companies, we focus on the entire value chain, from sourcing to end-consumer applications. Here, your input will not only influence sales figures but also contribute to a healthier planet by promoting sustainable practices.Our team consists of chefs and food scientists dedicated to inspiring new concepts, providing a rich environment to foster creativity and collaboration. You will enjoy the autonomy of leading high-impact sales initiatives allowing you to make your mark and drive business growth in a meaningful way. Your contributions will resonate beyond sales, affecting communities and ecosystems globally.You will report directly to Sales Director - Cocoa EMENASales Strategy & ExecutionDevelop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy to achieve revenue and profitability targets in Italy.Monitor competitor activities and market trends to stay ahead and differentiate the company’s offerings.Identify and pursue new business opportunities while maintaining and growing relationships with existing clients.Drive strategies to capture and expand market share.Negotiate and close contracts, ensuring alignment with business objectives and customer expectations.Analyze market trends, customer needs, and competitor activities to refine sales approaches.Collaborate with the Product Line Management (PLM) and marketing teams to align product offerings with market demand.Work closely with Technical and Customer Solutions teams to run projects in your markets for future growth of business.Custom Relationship ManagementBuild and maintain strong relationships with key clients, serving as their primary point of contact.Provide exceptional customer service by understanding client needs and delivering tailored cocoa solutions.Conduct regular business reviews with clients to assess satisfaction and identify opportunities for growth.Act as a trusted advisor, offering insights into cocoa trends, sustainability initiatives, and market developments.Actively engage with clients to understand their long-term business goals and challenges, aligning solutions to meet their evolving needs.Work closely with supply chain, innovation, and quality teams to ensure timely delivery and product quality.Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and conferences to promote the cocoa business.Report and AnalysisMonitor sales performance metrics and prepare regular reports for senior management.Use data-driven insights to identify gaps and opportunities in the market.Manage budgets and forecasts for the region, ensuring alignment with overall business goals.We Are Looking For a Person Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Food Science, Economics, or a related field (MBA preferred). Proven experience (min 5-8 yrs) in B2B sales within cocoa or related food ingredients industry. Strong understanding of the cocoa value chain, including sourcing, sustainability, and product applications. Exceptional negotiation and relationship-building skills. Ability to analyze market data and translate insights into actionable strategies. Proficiency in CRM tools and MS Office Suite. Fluent in Italian and English; additional European languages are a plus.Key Competencies Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams. Adaptability in a fast-paced and dynamic business environment. Passion for cocoa industry.