Regional Business Development Manager

About the role

We are seeking a Regional Business Development Manager for East & Southern Africa to lead market entry feasibility for an international dairy and food manufacturing client. You will research markets, build financial models, and recommend entry strategies across Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Zambia.

Key responsibilities

• Research each market’s size, competitors, pricing and consumer trends in dairy and related categories.
• Recommend entry approaches, priority markets and product mixes.
• Build landed‑cost and shelf‑price models for each product and market.
• Map distribution channels, shortlist distributors and hold initial discussions.
• Identify and assess local contract manufacturers and map import, registration and labelling requirements.
• Develop relationships with industry bodies, logistics providers and key partners.
• Deliver a comprehensive feasibility report with recommendations and a launch plan.

Required profile

• 8+ years commercial experience in FMCG, strong dairy sector background in Kenya.
• Proven sales and distribution experience in General Trade or B2B dairy sales.
• Hands‑on experience appointing and managing distributors.
• Willingness to travel regularly across Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Zambia.
• Self‑starter, analytical, confident with senior stakeholders and able to handle confidential information.

Required skills

• Strong financial modelling skills in Excel.
• Knowledge of import processes and East African trade regulations.
• Experience with market entry, contract manufacturing or private label (advantageous).
• Kiswahili language skills (advantageous).