Business Development Manager- Central & Growth Markets

The Business Development Manager for Central and Growth Markets will be responsible for driving the expansion and growth of Aujan Coca-Cola in the CIS and Balkan regions. This position will focus on identifying new market opportunities, opening new markets, handling key exhibitions, and executing brand activations to establish a strong market presence and increase brand visibility in these regions.

Responsibilities:

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities across the CIS & Balkan countries.
• Conduct market research to assess opportunities for new product launches and market entry.
• Build and maintain relationships with key local stakeholders, distributors, retailers, and potential partners.
• Develop and implement market entry strategies for expansion in targeted regions.
• Plan, manage, and represent the company at relevant trade exhibitions, events, and conferences across the CIS and Balkan regions.
• Ensure successful exhibition presence with a focus on lead generation, brand visibility, and market positioning.
• Organize logistics and coordinate with internal teams to ensure effective representation and execution of event participation.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute brand activation campaigns to enhance brand presence and awareness in the markets.
• Work closely with the marketing team to develop localized promotional materials and strategies tailored to the needs of the target markets.
• Monitor and evaluate the success of brand activation campaigns, making necessary adjustments to ensure maximum impact.
• Set and track sales targets for new market initiatives, ensuring performance aligns with regional business goals.
• Provide regular reports and updates on sales performance, market trends, and competitive landscape.
• Utilize market feedback to adjust strategies, improve offerings, and drive growth.
• Work cross-functionally with regional teams, marketing, sales, and product development teams to ensure alignment and execution of market expansion plans.
• Act as the key point of contact for internal teams regarding market developments in the CIS & Balkan regions.
• Report to senior management with insights, performance metrics, and recommendations for market growth.

Requirements:

• Bachelor&aposs degree in Business, Marketing, International Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in business development, sales, or marketing, preferably within the beverage or FMCG industry.
• Strong understanding of the beverage industry, including market trends, consumer behavior, and regulatory landscape in the CIS and Balkan regions.
• Proven track record of success in opening new markets and developing business in international markets, particularly within the CIS & Balkan regions.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills to build relationships with external stakeholders.
• Experience in organizing exhibitions, trade shows, and brand activations.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt to changing market dynamics.
• Fluent in English; proficiency in regional languages (Russian, Serbian, etc.) is a plus.
• Willingness to travel frequently across the CIS & Balkan countries.
• A proactive and self-motivated individual capable of working independently and as part of a larger team.