Retail Business Development Manager
Description:
At Fairtrade America you will work on behalf of one of the most cutting-edge models for change.
Fairtrade America’s mission is to connect disadvantaged producers and consumers, promote fairer
trading conditions and support producers to combat poverty, strengthen their position and take more
control over their lives. We ensure U.S. companies comply with the Fairtrade Standards to use the
Fairtrade Mark, the most trusted ethical product label that stands for better prices for farmers and is
backed by strict standards to protect the environment and worker’s rights. And we build public and civil
society support for policies and practices that create conditions where farmers can build economic and
political power and challenge the way trade is conducted.
The Retail Business Development Manager will create and execute a strategy to engage the American
retail sector with the aim of increasing the sales of Fairtrade certified products and retailer engagement
with the Fairtrade system. The position is a sales and key account management position, and the
successful candidate will engage directly with purchasers, marketing, and CSR divisions.
The candidate will also be responsible for managing several Fairtrade product categories. This entails
corporate relationship management, sales and marketing, and supply chain management.
Specific Responsibilities:
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Develop and execute a strategy to engage the America retail sector to bolster commitment of
retail accounts to Fairtrade certified products.
Oversee the development and growth of new retail business engagement with Fairtrade and to
develop and maintain effective key account relationships with brand partners in specific retail
accounts
Ensure the growth of Fairtrade market access through directing and managing business
development activities delivered in accordance with the organizational strategy
Build positive business opportunities in USA for the product categories allocated to this position
(cotton, gold, sports balls, cosmetics)
Work with counterparts in the global Fairtrade system to develop programming for retailers and
distribution strategies
Provide marketing support to ensure client engagement opportunities for promotion and
marketing
Build awareness and understanding of Fairtrade by educating potential and existing clients of
the Fairtrade system through presentations, trade show attendance, public speaking
opportunities
Ensure proper communication flow among Fairtrade system partners to ensure best outcomes
Additional work on evenings or weekends may be required
Travel (national and international) may be required on occasion
Carry out additional assignments as required by the Executive Director
Qualifications Required:
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Sales or Marketing degree or a related Business degree
10 years of progressive experience in mid to large consumer packaged goods companies or retail
companies that included business development activities and a robust network in this industry
Demonstrated track record of business/revenue growth and new client capture
Demonstrated success creating and implementing business development strategies, along with
a thorough understanding of commercial markets and direct experience working with consumer
products companies
Demonstrated ability to communicate, present and influence credibly and effectively at all levels
of the organization, including external executive and C-level
Understanding of supply chains
Project Management experience
Knowledge of Customer Relations Management databases. Netsuite knowledge is an asset
Working knowledge and understanding of certification systems
Willingness to travel (primarily local) Inter-departmental communication (Certification,
Communications, Marketing, Finance) to ensure effective & consistent communication
throughout departments and to clientele
Ensuring that their Supervisor is consulted, kept advised and well informed on all financial and
contractual matters
Meeting other duties as assigned and mutually-agreed upon goals.
Desired skills:
• Experience working within retail sector or industry sectors such as textiles, cosmetics, or mining
is considered an asset
• Customer centric in approach
• Excellent oral and written communications skills
• Results driven approach
• Strong analytical and relationship building skills
• Incorporate use of market research services/tools in the identification of business opportunities
• Experience in developing short-term and long-term business capture plans
• High personal integrity, honesty
• High interpersonal and priority management skills
• Able to work in a team environment
• Spanish is considered an asset
Salary is commensurate with experience. Fairtrade America offers a strong benefits package.
To apply send salary expectations, resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Only
suitable candidates will be contacted for an interview. All qualified applicants will receive equal
consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status,
sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.