Area Sales Manager

Our client is a dynamic, family-owned premium wine and spirits company with a rapidly growing global footprint. With a portfolio of five distinctive, high-growth labels, they partner with international distributors to activate, elevate, and expand brand presence across both on- and off-premise channels. They are known for their entrepreneurial spirit and culture-driven branding.

The Role

Reporting to both the International Sales Director and Regional Sales Director, you will play a pivotal role in executing market strategies, managing importer relationships, and ensuring brand visibility in Japan. This is a fully remote role that requires a self-starter who can navigate the complexities of the Japanese beverage market with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & Planning: Co-develop and implement the annual sales plan for the Japan market.

• Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholders, specifically within the Pernod Ricard Japan ecosystem (GMs, Sales Reps, and VPs).

• Inventory & Performance: Monitor and manage inventory, depletions, and SKU-level performance to ensure optimal stock levels.

• Brand Activation: Execute creative consumer activation programs, including tastings, demos, and promotional campaigns.

• Channel Strategy: Drive pricing and shelf strategies across retail environments and manage key on- and off-premise accounts.

• Market Intelligence: Conduct regular market surveys to ensure compliance with pricing and brand standards while providing feedback on competitor activity.

Key Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 5 years in beverage alcohol sales within the Japanese market.

• Network: Proven experience working with Pernod Ricard Japan teams is essential.

• Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of importer programming, pricing structures, and sales budget planning.

• Skills: Exceptional negotiation and interpersonal skills; ability to manage budgets and track depletions.

• Language: Fluency in Japanese and English (both written and spoken).

• Traits: Highly self-motivated, results-oriented, and comfortable in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

• Logistics: Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel regionally as required.