Associate Manager, Business Development- South Korea

For over 75 years, BIC has been creating ingeniously simple and joyful products that are a part of every heart and home.

As a member of our team, you'll be a part of reigniting a beloved brand as we continue to reimagine everyday essentials in new, sustainable and responsible ways.

Our "roll up your sleeves and get the job done" approach to work creates an environment where self-starters, problem solvers and innovative thinkers thrive. BIC team members are empowered to take ownership of their careers and bring their unique perspectives to the table to make a meaningful impact on our mission.

It's a colorful world - make your mark by joining the BIC team today.

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1. JOB SUMMARY
    

The Associate Business Development Manager is responsible for driving the growth and expansion of our product categories—stationery, lighters, and shavers—in the South Korea Market.

This role involves developing and executing strategic business plans, managing relationships with distributors to achieve sales targets and increase market share. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the South Korea market, strong leadership skills, and a proven business development and distributor management track record.

The primary objective is to enhance net sales and profitability while ensuring compliance with company policies and local regulations.

2. Roles & Responsibilities
    

Strategic Planning and Market Analysis:

• Develop and implement comprehensive business development strategies to achieve sales targets and market share growth.
• Conduct thorough market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and competitive landscape in the South Korea market.
• Set clear, achievable goals and KPIs for market share, sales growth, and profitability.

Distributor Management :

• Identify, evaluate, onboard new distributors to expand market coverage.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with existing distributors, ensuring alignment with company goals and strategies.
• Conduct regular performance reviews with distributors, providing feedback and support to optimize their performance.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms of trade with distributors to maximize profitability and market penetration.
• Conduct Regular Joint business reviews and key negotiations with top CVS customers like GS25, CU, 711 and Emart24 with the distributor partner.

Sales and Marketing Execution:

• Develop and execute sales and marketing plans in collaboration with distributors to drive distribution, product awareness and sales.
• Ensure distributors have the tools, training, and support to promote and sell products effectively.
• Monitor and analyze sales data to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.
• Coordinate promotional activities, trade shows, and events to enhance brand visibility and market presence.

Financial Management:

• Prepare and manage budgets for the business development function, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Monitor financial performance, including sales, expenses, and profitability, and implement measures to achieve financial targets.
• Work closely with the finance team to ensure accurate forecasting, reporting, and financial analysis.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure all business activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with distributor management and market operations.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes and market developments that may impact the business.

Reporting and Communication:

• Provide regular reports to management on market performance, business development activities, and strategic initiatives.
• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders, including marketing, finance, and supply chain teams, to ensure alignment and support for business development efforts.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between the company and distributors, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.

3. Key Performance Indicators / Key Figures

• Sales Growth: Achieve a year-over-year increase in sales revenue for stationery, lighters, and shavers.
• Market Share: Increase the market share for all product categories in the South Korea Market
• Profitability: Improve net profit margins and overall profitability through effective cost management and pricing strategies.
• Distributor Performance: Measure and improve distributor performance through sales volume, market coverage, and adherence to agreed terms.
• Customer Satisfaction: Ensure high customer satisfaction and retention levels through quality products and distributor service.
• New Distributor Acquisition: Successfully onboard and manage new distributors to expand market presence.
• Inventory Turnover: Optimize inventory turnover rates for efficient supply chain management.
• Budget Adherence: Maintain strict adherence to budgetary guidelines and achieve financial targets.
• Promotional Effectiveness: Measure the success of marketing and promotional campaigns in driving sales and brand awareness.

      4. Knowledge, Skills, Competencies

• Strong understanding of the South Korea market and business practices.
• Proven track record in business development and distributor management preferably experience in dealing with Convenience Store Channel
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinking and analytical abilities.
• Leadership and team management experience.
• Financial acumen and budget management skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• On-line Commerce know-how to effectively leverage digital platforms and e-commerce channels in FMCG business development strategies.

     5. Qualifications/Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Marketing, or a related field..
• Proven track record of at least eight years in business development, Key Account Management, sales, or related roles, focusing on the South Korea market.
• Proven proficiency in negotiation and management of Joint Business Plans with diverse customers, including National Distributors, Modern Trade Channel specially CVS Channel, and online players.
• Strong analytical skills and financial acumen, with the ability to process and manage data from market visits, distributors, and market intelligence sources.
• Proven ability to manage and prioritize workload effectively, with experience in stress management and extensive travel.
• Experience in the stationery, lighters, or shavers’ industry is a plus.
• Proficiency in Korean and English.

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