Customer Development Manager

About the role

As a key member of the Customer Development Team, you will own the relationship between Hill’s Pet Nutrition and major accounts and independent stores across South Africa. You will translate market complexity into profitable sales growth for Hill’s Pet Nutrition products.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver quarterly and annual sell‑out, net sales, volume, GtN and channel profitability targets.
• Develop, negotiate and execute customer strategic plans within budget, based on category trends and competitive analysis.
• Coordinate plan implementation with Territory Managers nationwide to ensure retail execution.
• Build strong buyer relationships, understand their needs and create customized business solutions.
• Analyse account‑specific business trends using sell‑out and syndicated data to identify gaps and growth opportunities.
• Collaborate with Marketing and cross‑functional teams to develop initiatives, maximise investment efficiency and align shopper insights.
• Manage account administration, ROI analysis and pre‑/post‑program evaluations for promotions and events.
• Undertake project work as requested to broaden personal skill set.

Required profile

• Proven experience in sales or account management within consumer goods or pet nutrition.
• Strong analytical mindset with ability to interpret market and sell‑out data.
• Excellent stakeholder relationship and negotiation skills.
• Ability to develop and execute strategic plans aligned with business objectives.

Required skills