Sales Manager (Germany)

🚀About Uplift

Uplift is a dynamic agency specializing in global talent search, covering EMEA, LATAM, USA, and APAC. With successful placements in 52 countries, we combine speed and cutting-edge technology to source top executive and mid-senior talent across various functions. Our innovative approach integrates global networks, AI, and advanced recruitment tools. Beyond recruitment, we engage with our audience through our podcast, newsletter, and webinars, ensuring we stay at the forefront of talent acquisition and global HR trends.

⭐About Our Client

Our client is a renowned confectionery company based in Germany, offering a work environment where craftsmanship meets modern production techniques, making it an exciting opportunity for those passionate about the food industry.

We are looking for an outstanding and entrepreneurial Sales Manager to drive direct sales for our newly launched chewing gum and candy brands, building a competitive presence in the German and EU food markets. The ideal candidate will possess a strong entrepreneurial mindset, a deep understanding of the German market, and hands-on experience in confectionery, wellness snacks, and related categories.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

• Sales Strategy & Channel Development: Develop and execute a strategic plan tailored to the German and EU markets, identifying key opportunities to penetrate various sales channels, including major grocery markets, discount stores, wholesale clubs, drugstores, and gas stations.
• Market & Competitor Analysis: Stay attuned to competitor activities and market trends, conducting customer meetings and analyzing opportunities across multiple sales channels.
• Relationship Building: Build and sustain relationships with key distributors, retailers, and e-commerce platforms in Germany and beyond, with an emphasis on private label opportunities and traditional channels.
• Performance Tracking & Reporting : Monitor and analyze sales performance metrics, providing regular updates to stakeholders and adjusting strategies to meet and exceed sales targets.
• Growth & Team Development: Leverage this role’s growth potential to build a sales team across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, evolving into a Sales Director position.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with marketing, product development, and other functions to align sales strategies with market demands and consumer preferences.

Qualifications:

• Location & Experience: Based in Germany, with significant experience in the German confectionery market and familiarity with local sales channels.
• Product Knowledge: Strong background in the confectionery industry, with specific experience in gum, candy, and wellness products, supplements.
• Sales Leadership & Strategy: Proven ability to develop and execute effective sales strategies, drive market penetration, and adapt to new opportunities in grocery, pharmacy, and traditional channels.
• Language Proficiency: Fluent in English; native-level German is highly preferred.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Independent, results-driven, and adaptable, with the ability to create success stories within a growing brand.