Job Openings Commercial Manager

About the job Commercial Manager

Job Title: Commercial Manager

Sector/Industry: Agriculture / FMCG / Food Processing
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Work Structure: Onsite

About the Client

Our client is a fast-growing agribusiness company focused on the production, processing, and distribution of high-quality agricultural products. The organization is committed to driving food security, innovation, and value chain development within Nigeria's agricultural sector, with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency, market expansion, and sustainable growth.

As part of its expansion strategy, the company is seeking a highly driven Commercial Manager to lead all commercial activities, drive revenue growth, and strengthen its market presence across retail and HORECA segments.

Job Summary

You will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and execution of all commercial activities including sales, marketing, partnerships, distribution, and customer relationship management. The role will ensure sustained revenue growth, profitability, and market expansion across all product lines.

You will oversee the establishment of efficient distribution channels, secure pre-contract agreements with key customers, ensure consistent product availability across target markets, and drive the achievement of sales targets within defined timelines.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

  • Develop and implement commercial strategies aligned with the company's overall business objectives.
  • Drive market entry and expansion strategies for new and existing product lines, including processed food products.
  • Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify trends and growth opportunities.
  • Align commercial strategies with production, procurement, and supply chain capabilities.

Sales & Business Development

  • Drive revenue growth by securing pre-contract agreements with customers on product volumes and delivery timelines.
  • Achieve monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets across all product lines.
  • Expand into new markets and strengthen presence within the HORECA segment.
  • Lead client engagement, proposal development, negotiations, and long-term partnership management.

Distribution & Supply Chain Management

  • Establish and manage effective distribution networks to ensure timely product delivery.
  • Monitor logistics and inventory to meet customer demand and contractual obligations.
  • Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams for efficient stock planning and movement.

Marketing & Brand Development

  • Lead marketing initiatives to build brand awareness across retail and HORECA markets.
  • Ensure competitive product positioning within the market.
  • Oversee promotional campaigns, trade exhibitions, and targeted marketing activities.

Partnership & Contract Management

  • Negotiate and manage agreements with distributors, wholesalers, and HORECA clients.
  • Build and maintain strategic partnerships that drive sales growth and profitability.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, food safety standards, and contractual terms.

Reporting & Performance Monitoring

  • Prepare and present weekly, monthly, and quarterly performance reports.
  • Conduct biannual business reviews to assess strategy effectiveness and market positioning.
  • Track key performance indicators including sales targets, contract volumes, and customer satisfaction.

Leadership & Team Management

  • Lead, mentor, and develop the commercial team to achieve business objectives.
  • Oversee execution of commercial projects, including product launches and distribution expansion.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, finance, HR, and procurement teams.

Reporting Structure

Reports To: General Manager

Educational Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or related field.
  • A Master's degree (MBA) or relevant professional certification is an added advantage.

Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA's)

Experience

  • Minimum of 7–10 years' progressive experience in commercial or sales management within FMCG, manufacturing, or agribusiness sectors.
  • Proven experience in establishing distribution channels and managing supply chains.
  • Strong network and experience within the HORECA market segment in Nigeria.
  • Demonstrated success in achieving revenue targets and driving market expansion.
  • Experience negotiating commercial contracts and managing customer relationships.
  • Good understanding of the Nigerian regulatory and business environment.

Knowledge

  • Commercial strategy development and execution
  • Sales forecasting and revenue management
  • HORECA and food distribution dynamics
  • Market research and competitor analysis
  • Supply chain and distribution management
  • Regulatory and food safety compliance standards

Skills

  • Strong commercial and financial acumen
  • Negotiation and contract management
  • Stakeholder and customer relationship management
  • Strategic planning and execution
  • Leadership and team development
  • Excellent communication (written and verbal)

Abilities

  • Ability to drive revenue growth and market expansion
  • Strong decision-making and problem-solving capabilities
  • High level of credibility and integrity
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills
  • Results-oriented with a high-performance mindset