Area Sales Manager

Unilever is hiring for an Area Sales Manager to join its innovative and high-performing Customer Development team in Kenya.

Key Job Information

• Position: Area Sales Manager
• Location: Kenya (based in Nairobi)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Mid to Senior level
• Salary Range: Competitive, commensurate with experience

About Unilever

Unilever is a global leader in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, trusted by over 3.4 billion people across 190+ countries every day. The company’s mission—to make sustainable living commonplace—drives every initiative and innovation. Careers at Unilever offer professionals an opportunity to shape markets and communities while promoting sustainability and positive social impact.

Unilever’s portfolio includes some of the world’s most iconic brands spanning personal care, home care, nutrition, and refreshment categories. The company fosters a culture of inclusion, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. Employees enjoy a collaborative, flexible, and supportive work environment that empowers them to shape their own professional journeys.

As one of the most sought-after FMCG employers in Kenya, Unilever offers dynamic job opportunities in Nairobi and beyond, where individuals can contribute to both business success and societal progress. Recent achievements include leadership in sustainability innovation, expansion into new digital channels, and recognition as a top employer globally.

Job Description

The Area Sales Manager (ASM) role is one of the most exciting and impactful sales career opportunities at Unilever in Kenya. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving consistent and profitable sales growth across a designated region. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead field sales operations, build strong customer partnerships, and deliver exceptional results aligned with Unilever’s purpose and business objectives.

As part of the Customer Development team, the ASM will lead field sales strategy execution, manage key distribution networks, and ensure seamless collaboration with internal stakeholders. This is an ideal opportunity for experienced sales professionals looking to take their career to the next level in one of the most dynamic FMCG markets in East Africa.

Key Responsibilities

Sales Strategy Implementation

• Execute regional sales strategies to consistently exceed revenue and profitability targets aligned with national objectives.
• Customize sales plans to address the unique needs of professional customers within assigned territories.

Customer Infrastructure & Satisfaction

• Ensure an optimal customer infrastructure is in place across the region, eliminating service gaps and ensuring a seamless customer experience.
• Monitor financial health and profitability of all customers, ensuring sustainable partnerships.

Distributor Network Management

• Build and manage effective reseller and distributor networks to enhance market coverage and revenue growth.
• Implement distributor management best practices to drive operational excellence and profitability.

Stakeholder Management

• Foster strong relationships with key channel partners and customers, acting as a trusted advisor and business partner.
• Proactively address inquiries and concerns to ensure high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Territory Expansion

• Identify and onboard new customers and distribution partners to drive territorial growth.
• Leverage market insights to optimize territory coverage and performance.

Market Insights & Reporting

• Conduct regular market research to identify trends, opportunities, and consumer needs.
• Provide actionable insights to enhance product offerings and market positioning.
• Maintain accurate sales records and reports, analyzing performance data to drive continuous improvement.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Territory Sales Officers (TSOs) to achieve individual and team sales targets.
• Promote a collaborative, high-performance culture within the sales team.

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with marketing, operations, and customer support teams to deliver seamless customer experiences.
• Contribute to cross-functional projects to drive innovation and operational excellence.

Compliance & Financial Hygiene

• Ensure adherence to financial hygiene standards in collaboration with Commercial and Supply Chain teams.
• Manage key aspects such as sales returns, damage claims, stock mismatches, and trade discounts.

Required Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years of relevant field sales experience with a proven track record of achieving sales targets.
• Experience in Key Distributor management is essential.
• Solid understanding of territory distribution management and customer plan implementation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Preferred Qualifications

• Four years of brand building experience is an advantage.
• Three years of trade category management experience preferred.
• Strong negotiation, planning, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate high-performing teams.
• Advanced problem-solving, presentation, and influencing skills.
• Experience in customer management across various business areas, including supply chain and account management.
• Financial acumen and understanding of key business drivers.
• Passion for growth and creativity in driving market share gains.

Benefits and Compensation

Unilever offers an attractive compensation and benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing and career growth:

• Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives and bonuses.
• Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for business activities.
• Retirement and savings plans.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a global organization.
• Access to world-class leadership development programs.
• Inclusive, supportive workplace culture focused on employee empowerment and belonging.

How to Apply

If you are a dynamic sales leader ready to take on a new challenge, Unilever invites you to explore this exciting Area Sales Manager opportunity in Kenya. Be part of an organization that values innovation, leadership, and purpose-driven success.

To apply, please submit your updated CV and a cover letter through the Unilever careers portal. Highlight your relevant experience and how you can contribute to Unilever’s continued growth and success.

Unilever embraces diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. The company encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process. If you require support or accessibility accommodations, please inform the recruitment team during your application.