Business Development Assistant Manager

We are currently seeking an interim Business Development Assistant Manager, to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.

The position is based in Kingston upon Thames, Surrey. This is a full-time temporary role to run for 6 months, requiring 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £38,000 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.

The role currently offers a mix of remote and onsite working, subject to adjustment based on business requirements.

MAIN JOB PURPOSE
The incumbent will manage end-to-end business initiatives in the UKI & Malta regions.
The role involves:

MAIN ACCOUNTABILITIES
Distributor Management:

• Lead the process of JBPs (joint business planning), sales and marketing execution plans across internal (Unilever) and Distributor teams.
• Understand consumers, customers, and channels in each market.
• Oversee distributor execution of the agreed plans.
• Lead the training of distributor teams to bridge capability and process gaps.
• Ensure full integration of Customer Marketing Plans with Brand Marketing Plans and Distributor Business Planning.
• Provide distributors with input into the Innovation program through insights on in-market competitor activities and pricing research.
• Measure, track, and report customer performance, ensuring real-time correction plans are implemented to achieve agreed objectives.
• Conduct monthly reviews with internal and external stakeholders.
• Oversee distributor stock management.

Sales Operations Management:

• Ensure speed to market for new product distribution.
• Analyze new outlet sales throughput.
• Submit the Monthly Principal Report, Rolling Forecast (Anaplan), Purchase Order, and sales reports.
• Review customer plans with the BDM and update forecasts in the system monthly.
• Track PO status, including case fill reports and backlogs. Update and review customer orders with the Supply Chain Team weekly to drive better order service.
• Ensure timely accrual of all trading terms in the system.
• Properly track trading terms and promotion budgets versus actuals. Manage and update trade spends to ensure the business stays on track within budgets.
• Provide in-market activities reports and competitor data.
• Manage new product launches by coordinating with the innovation team for registration/compliance documents collection and working with the Sales/Innovation planner to complete the registration process.
• Ensure updated customer information in the system to help manage smooth business operations.
• Raise and manage budgets, review with the CD OPS and Finance Team.
• Follow up on pricing setup with sales operations team.
• Assist the BDM in the debtor's review process by ensuring updated customer payment information in the system.
• Report monthly IMS and GSV for key distributors.
• Liaise with Marketing Teams to help implement BTL activities in key markets.

Key Skills:

• Capable of operating on a cross-national scale and developing remote management skills.
• Willingness to travel within the region up to 30% of the time.
• Strong finance business partnering skills.
• Ability to grasp the big picture while also diving into details when necessary.
• Commitment to the role as outlined, avoiding distractions from non-core local activities.
• Self-confident integrity is essential, as the job's challenges will regularly test one's values and often involve delivering difficult messages to business partners and key customers.

Relevant Experience:

• Over 4 years of business experience in FMCG.
• Experience in distributor management and key account management.
• Proficient in budgeting and planning.

Kingston working environment:

• Contractors who are based at Kingston will be eligible to get free parking at a local carpark
• There is a Unilever Staff Shop located on the Ground Floor next to the main entrance, where Contingent Workers can buy discounted Unilever products.
• A canteen
• A Gym is available for use on the Ground Floor (with subscription).
• Facilities in the gym include cardiovascular equipment, resistance machines, spin bikes, free weights area, boxing equipment and a stretch/matted area. Classes are also available and can be booked directly with the Gym. Shower facilities are available in the changing rooms, along with hairdryers.