Sales Manager Food Commodities
Job Summary
The Sales Manager will lead the expansion of the Food & Agro Commodities business in Japan by building strong relationships with key stakeholders. The role involves managing sales targets, coordinating product supply, and developing market strategies for food ingredients and agro-related products. This position is vital for driving sustainable growth and fostering long-term partnerships with Japanese manufacturers and trading companies.
Responsibilities
- Develop and expand sales of food ingredients and agro commodities
- Acquire new customers and manage existing relationships
- Coordinate with supply chain for delivery and quality compliance
- Monitor market trends and execute business strategies
Required Skills
- 10+ years experience in food/agro sales
- Business-level Japanese (JLPT N2+)
- Strong negotiation and relationship management
- Knowledge of import/export and international trade
Job Details
### Position Background
This position is being created to support the continued expansion of our Food & Agro Commodities business in Japan. The role requires building strong relationships with Japanese customers and contributing to sustainable, long-term business development.
### Key Responsibilities
1. Sales & Business Development
• Develop and expand sales of food ingredients and agro commodities in the Japan market
• Identify new business opportunities and acquire new customers
• Achieve sales targets and ensure steady and sustainable growth
2. Customer Relationship Management
• Build and maintain relationships with Japanese customers, including food manufacturers, trading companies, and distributors
• Strengthen existing customer relationships and expand business volume
• Manage commercial discussions, negotiations, and ensure customer satisfaction
3. Product & Supply Coordination
• Understand customer requirements and coordinate with sourcing and supply chain teams
• Ensure timely delivery, quality compliance, and documentation
• Handle product inquiries and provide basic technical or application-related support
4. Market Intelligence & Strategy
• Monitor market trends in Japan’s food and agro commodities sector
• Conduct competitor analysis and support pricing and positioning strategies
• Contribute to mid- to long-term business planning and execution
### Job Requirements
■ Qualifications Required
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in sales or business development in food ingredients or agro commodities
• Experience handling the Japan market or Japanese customers
• Japanese language proficiency: Business level (JLPT N2 or above preferred)
• English: Business communication level
■ Preferred Experience
• Experience with products such as grains, pulses, spices, edible oils, sweeteners, or processed food ingredients
• Experience working with Japanese trading companies or large food manufacturers
• Experience in import/export operations and international trade
■ Desired Attributes
• Ability to build long-term, trust-based relationships with Japanese customers
• Strong understanding of customer expectations in terms of quality and reliability
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of handling end-to-end coordination
• Strong communication and cross-cultural collaboration skills
### Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• Revenue growth in the Japan market
• New customer acquisition
• Expansion of existing customer accounts
• Consistency in supply execution and customer satisfaction