At Puratos, we create innovative food solutions for the health and well-being of people everywhere. As the global leader in bakery, patisserie and chocolate ingredients, we help our customers to be successful with their business, by turning technologies and experiences from food cultures around the world into new opportunities.
We are more than 10.000 employees in over 70 countries and a consolidated turnover of 2.8 billion euros (in 2022). Our passion for innovation, a pioneering spirit and the unique Puratos culture drive our solid growth and vision for the future This, along with our commitment to our local communities, is what makes working at Puratos so magical.
To strengthen our team in Addis Ababa – Ethiopia we are looking for a:
Business Development Manager
(Addis Ababa – Ethiopia)
Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Business Development Manager will play a key role in supporting our customers’ success and driving sustainable business growth in Ethiopia. The role is responsible for implementing the company’s commercial strategy and product focus across Bakery, Patisserie, and Chocolate categories.
The Business Development Manager will primarily focus on sales development within targeted industrial and key commercial market segments, building strong customer partnerships, and identifying new growth opportunities. Success in this role will be achieved through a deep understanding of customer needs, proactive business development initiatives, and strengthening our position as a trusted partner delivering Food Innovation for Good.
Key Tasks
- Work with distributors, partners, and customers to promote and sell Puratos bakery, patisserie, and chocolate product ranges to large industrial and commercial customers in Ethiopia.
- Grow existing sales and profitability while expanding market presence and increasing market share in Ethiopia.
- Build and maintain strong customer relationships through regular engagement and proactively develop new projects to support sustainable business growth.
- Develop innovative and inspirational product concepts in collaboration with the sales and R&D teams, aligned with consumer trends and customer requirements.
- Provide technical support to customers and coordinate with regional and global Puratos technical teams to address customer needs effectively.
- Ensure all required technical documentation is provided to customers and ensure compliance with Ethiopian food safety and regulatory requirements.
- Work closely with the Customer Service and Supply Chain teams to ensure alignment and deliver an excellent customer experience.
1. Key Internal Relationships
- Country Management Team (Sales, Finance, Operations, R&D)
- Sales and Marketing Teams
- Customer Service and Supply Chain Teams
- Key Account Managers
- R&D and Application Managers
- Area Sales Manager Teams
2. Key External Relationships
- Key Customers and Strategic Accounts
- Distributors and Business Partners
- Industry Associations and Trade Bodies
- Regulatory Authorities (as relevant to commercial activities)
- External Service Providers and Consultants
3. Position Profile
- Academic Degree:
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Management, Food Science, or a related field required; Master’s degree (MBA or equivalent) preferred.
- Experience (Years & Type):
- Minimum 8–10 years of experience in business development, sales, or commercial leadership roles, preferably within the food, ingredients, FMCG, or related industries.
- Proven experience in managing key accounts, developing new markets, and delivering sustainable revenue growth.
- Demonstrated experience in leading or coordinating cross‑functional teams and working within matrix organizations.
- Languages:
English required (spoken and written); Amharic or other local languages are an advantage.
- ICT:
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint); CRM system experience is an added advantage.
- Other Expertise:
- Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills
- Ability to influence stakeholders at different organizational levels
- Strong analytical and business planning skills
- Excellent organizational, negotiation, and relationship‑management capabilities
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment
4. Competencies
- Collaborating Effectively:
Works collaboratively across functions and geographies, building trust‑based relationships and fostering teamwork to achieve shared business objectives.
- Communicating Effectively:
Clearly communicates ideas, strategies, and value propositions to diverse audiences, ensuring alignment with customer and organizational needs.
- Driving Performance:
Demonstrates strong ambition and accountability in achieving sales and growth targets. Plans and prioritizes effectively, uses resources efficiently, and responds positively to challenges and changing market conditions.
- Continuous Improvement:
Continuously seeks opportunities to improve business performance, customer satisfaction, and personal effectiveness. Embraces innovation, learning, and best practices to drive sustained growth.
