Export Sales Director

Strategic Planning & Market Expansion:

• Develop and implement comprehensive export sales strategies aligned with company goals, including market entry plans for new territories focused on frozen French Fries demand.
• Conduct market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, customer needs, and competitive landscapes in the global frozen food industry.
• Pipeline new business opportunities by prospecting international buyers, distributors, and retailers, with a focus on high-volume markets for potato products.
• Set and monitor annual sales targets, forecasts, and budgets to ensure profitable growth, adjusting strategies based on market dynamics like supply chain disruptions or tariff changes

Sales and Business Development:

• Lead negotiations for export contracts, pricing, and terms with international clients, ensuring compliance with export regulations, customs requirements, and food safety standards.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including distributors, importers, foodservice chains (QSRs), and retail specializing in frozen goods.
• Drive new customer acquisition through participation in industry trade shows (e.g., Anuga, SIAL, or Gulfood), networking events, and targeted sales campaigns.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., production, logistics, quality control & marketing) to customize product offerings, such as private-label French fries or specialized cuts, to meet regional preferences.

Team Leadership and Account Management:

• Manage and mentor a team of export sales managers and representatives, providing training on product knowledge & sales techniques.
• Oversee existing accounts to foster growth, conduct regular business reviews, and resolve issues related to product quality, delivery, or claims.
• Utilize CRM tools to track sales pipelines, customer interactions, and performance metrics, ensuring accurate forecasting and reporting to stakeholders. 

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure all export activities comply with international trade laws, including export documentation, labeling requirements for frozen foods, and certifications like Halal or Kosher for specific markets.
• Monitor global economic factors, such as currency fluctuations, trade barriers, or raw material costs and mitigate risks to maintain supply chain efficiency 

Academic and Professional Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Marketing, International Trade, Food Science, or a related field; an MBA or advanced degree is preferred

Experience

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in export sales within the food industry, with at least 5-8 years in a leadership role, preferable on frozen products (experience in potato products or French fries manufacturing is highly desirable).
• Proven track record of achieving sales growth in international markets, including experience in contract negotiations, and managing huge export portfolios. 

Skills and Competencies

• Familiarity with export logistics, including shipping frozen goods, cold chain management, and compliance with international trade regulations like the USDA, EU Food Safety Authority, or equivalent.
• Willingness to travel extensively.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and ERP platforms.