Director for EMEA Sales Department

Founded in 1913, Sumitomo Chemical is a global chemical company based in Japan, offering a diverse range of products globally in five sectors: petrochemicals and plastics, energy and functional materials, chemicals and it-related materials, health and crop science products, and pharmaceuticals. The global company realizes a turnover of ca. 20 billion USD and employing ca. : 30.000 people worldwide In the crop science sector, Sumitomo Chemical is the 8th largest company, with a strong R&D focused on both conventional and biorational fields. The EMEA headquarters, Sumitomo Chemical Agro Europe (SCAE), is based near Lyon in France. As part of significant investments in R&D, Sumitomo Chemical wants to strengthen its efficiency and responsiveness in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. In this environment, Sumitomo Chemical Agro Europe is searching for its headquarters for a:

Director for EMEA Sales Department

Mission:

Manage and execute the sales activities of Sumitomo Chemical in EMEA territory, which includes the businesses under the affiliate companies. Align the commercial strategies and implement them through a clear communication with Portfolio Department of EMEA as well as international companies. Manage relationships with customers, design and implement demand stakeholders.

Main Accountabilities:

Country strategy

Develop and implement short to long term EMEA strategy, by:
  • Analyzing internal portfolio performance data and preparing portfolio recommendation
  • Analyzing customer’s portfolio and its ability to sell Sumitomo Chemical products and make recommendation on selection and/or prioritization of customer relationships
  • Looking for consumer needs and trends while understanding our customer needs
  • Monitoring competitive data and their activities
  • Defining 3Y sales strategy on annual basis

Business Performance

 Manage budget and P&L in EMEA, short and long-term business objectives are met in assigned territory, by:
  • Ensuring sales targets are met and measure performance
  • Following OPEX
  • Implementing all necessary corrective actions
  • Ensuring accurate forecasts into the S&OP process
Ensure each countries reaches financial targets, by:
  • Defining a yearly financial budget, and business strategy, considering local constraints and company objectives
  • Defining and following key KPI’s for the country
  • Validating the sales and customer strategy
  • Maintaining strong customer relations and good customer service
  • Designing and implementing necessary demand creation activities targeting users of products and any key influencers in the markets

Leadership

Lead, manage and develop the EMEA sales team by:
  • Providing clear objectives, timelines and ways of working
  • Identifying strengths and development areas to be addressed and nurtured
  • Following up on performance and providing feedback for improvement and recognition
Take part in the management activities, by:
  • Demonstrating and upholding our core values
  • Communicating company directives
  • Attending the Management Committee and representing the company at official bodies, trade association or international institutional level

Compliance & Administration

Ensure the business is run according to legal and financial requirements, by :
  • Representing business unit in international industry association to support industry interests with the authorities
  • Close work with lobby and experts
  • Ensuring all processes are in line with local legislation
  • Participating in local audits when required
  • Informing legal department of any ongoing litigation/procedures with third parties

Technical Skills

  • Proven ability to deliver results against a changing and difficult business environment
  • Leadership : Ability to lead, motivate and develop a People management skills, building and maintaining relationships
  • Negotiation skills
  • Forecasting, strategic planning
  • Financial analysis
  • Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
  • Initiative, Creative and flexible
  • Coaching and counseling
  • Ability to propose oral, written and group communication
  • Knowledge about plant protection product markets in EMEA, especially in EU,
  • Basic knowledge about agronomy or related area
  • Able to work, write and speak in English

Education (Optional)

  • Master’s degree in Agriculture, Sales or Marketing

Experience

  • 10 years Marketing, Development and/or Sales of PPP in Europe, which includes Global or European level experiences, and minimum multiple countries in EMEA

Additional information:

  •  Starting date: as soon as possible
  • Contract: Long term contract
  • Localisation: St Didier au Mont d’Or (near Lyon), but to be negociated
  • Driving Licence required
  • Open for frequent travelling

 

 

Director for EMEA Sales Department