Role Definition
The Area Sales Manager (ASM) is responsible for driving sales growth, managing distributors, and leading a sales team within an assigned geographic area. The role involves developing sales strategies, increasing market share, ensuring strong brand presence, and achieving revenue targets.
Key Responsibilities :
Sales and Revenue Growth-
- Develop and implement sales strategies to achieve regional sales targets.
- Drive primary and secondary sales through effective distributor management.
- Ensure consistent growth in market share and brand penetration.
- Identify new business opportunities and expand the customer base.
Distributor & Channel Management-
Appoint, monitor, and manage distributors, wholesalers, and retailers.Ensure distributor ROI (Return on Investment) through efficient stock management.Address distributor concerns and resolve supply chain issues.Ensure timely payments and credit control adherence.Control costs of supply and salesMarket Development & Brand Visibility-
Increase brand visibility and market share by executing promotional activities.Ensure product availability and proper merchandising at retail outlets.Work with the marketing team to implement trade promotions and consumer engagement programs.Team Management & Training-
Recruit, train, and lead a team of Sales Officers / Executives.Monitor team performance and provide coaching for improvement.Set clear sales targets and review progress regularly.Market Intelligence & Reporting-
Conduct market research to track competitor activities and consumer trends.Analyze sales data and generate reports for management.Provide insights for new product launches and marketing initiatives.Qualifications & Experience :
Education : Bachelors / Masters degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.Experience : 7+ years of sales experience in the FMCG sector, with at least 2 years in a managerial role.Preferred Industry : FMCG (Food, Beverages, Personal Care, Household Products, etc.).Working Conditions :
Field work i.e. personal visit to retailers and distributors in own vehicleDocument the work done in the sales force automation appWork with team members to enable them to cover outlets onboardedReport to Managing DirectorRequired Knowledge :
FMCG Industry & Market Dynamics Understanding consumer behavior, competition, and demand-supply factors.Sales & Distribution Management Channel sales, primary & secondary sales, GT (General Trade), MT (Modern Trade).Retailer & Distributor Management Knowledge of distributor operations, margin structures, and inventory management.Sales Planning & Target Setting Ability to forecast and set achievable sales goals.Trade Marketing & Promotions Understanding consumer promotions, trade schemes, and merchandising.Basic Financial Knowledge Profit & loss, credit management, and ROI calculations.Legal & Compliance Knowledge of GST, invoicing, and regulatory norms in FMCG sales.Technology & Data Analytics Using CRM, DMS (Distributor Management System), Spreadsheets and sales dashboards.Required Skills
Sales & Negotiation Skills Closing deals, handling objections, and improving margins.Leadership & Team Management Motivating, training, and managing sales executives.Problem-Solving & Decision-Making Handling distributor issues, stock shortages, and competitor actions.Communication & Interpersonal Skills Engaging with distributors, retailers, and internal teams. Analytical & Strategic Thinking Interpreting sales data and making informed decisions.Time & Territory Management Prioritizing tasks and covering assigned regions effectively.Customer Relationship Management Building and maintaining strong relations with channel partners.Execution & Follow-Up Ensuring timely implementation of sales strategies and schemes.ref : iimjobs.com)