- Build and maintain strong relationships with existing customers while identifying and engaging new business opportunities.
- Conduct market research and analyse business potential within the personal care industry across identified Sub-Saharan African (SSA) markets.
- Monitor commercial, technical, and marketing trends, providing regular market intelligence and competitive analysis reports.
- Identify and implement the most effective route-to-market strategy for each SSA country.
- Serve as the primary liaison for local distributors, providing technical support and driving new business development.
- Prepare and communicate quotations, pricing, payment terms, and delivery information to customers on behalf of principals.
- Deliver technical support, product presentations, and customer service activities in line with business strategies and objectives.
- Monitor and report on competitor activities, market developments, and other relevant industry information.
- Collaborate with key internal stakeholders, including Key Account Management, Technical Services, Product Management, New Business Development, Customer Service, Supply Chain, and Business Services teams.
- Manage the product planning pipeline and forecasting process to ensure product availability meets customer demand.
- Identify, develop, and manage new business opportunities and projects while maintaining an active project pipeline.
- Oversee all administrative responsibilities associated with the Business Manager role.
- Represent the business at industry exhibitions, trade shows, and networking events.
- Support the resolution of customer complaints, credit control matters, and product sample follow-up.
- Participate in business line meetings, industry forums, technical training sessions, seminars, and conference calls.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Minimum Master's Degree in Applied Chemistry, Polymer Science, or a related field (business management qualification advantageous).
- Proven experience in the cosmetics, personal care, or beauty industry is essential.
- Strong technical knowledge of cosmetic formulations, raw materials, regulations, and market trends.
- Demonstrated success in growing business within the personal care industry in South Africa and across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
- Well-established professional network within the cosmetics and personal care industry, including customers, suppliers, and key stakeholders.
- Experience in a multinational or corporate environment.
- Proven ability to deliver results across SSA markets.
- Strong relationship-building, negotiation, and business development skills.
- Fluent in English; proficiency in another South African official language is required.
- Knowledge of Portuguese or French will be advantageous.
- Collaborative team player with excellent interpersonal skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, CRM systems, pricing tools, and other business software.