Distribution Partner Manager | Non-Liquor – Free State X1
Job Details
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Position: Distribution Partner Manager | Non-Liquor – Free State & Northern Cape
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Company: Red Bull
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Location: Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Region Covered: Free State & Northern Cape
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Industry: FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods)
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Travel Requirement: 80–90% (Field-based role)
Job Overview
The Distribution Partner Manager is responsible for driving sales growth and achieving perfect store execution within the Independent Rural and Urban Trade channel. The primary goal is to expand and strengthen Red Bull’s footprint in the non-liquor segment across the Free State and Northern Cape regions.
This role focuses on developing and implementing a strategic distribution concept that positions Red Bull as the market leader in the Energy category within independent trade channels. The successful candidate will translate strategy into actionable plans, manage third-party distribution partners, and ensure consistent execution in the field.
Key Responsibilities
1. Data Analysis
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Analyze sales data, market trends, and performance reports.
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Identify growth opportunities and areas for improvement.
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Use insights to drive business decisions and optimize distribution.
2. Business Planning
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Develop regional sales strategies aligned with company objectives.
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Create actionable plans to expand distribution and market share.
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Build case studies and conceptual selling decks to support initiatives.
3. Sales & 3rd Party Distribution Management
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Manage and lead third-party distribution partners.
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Drive sales performance across independent rural and urban trade.
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Ensure compliance with company standards and execution excellence.
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Strengthen relationships with regional and independent accounts.
4. Trade Visits (Field Execution – 80%)
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Conduct regular trade visits to monitor in-store execution.
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Ensure product availability, visibility, and promotional compliance.
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Coach and motivate distribution sales teams.
5. Budget & Reporting Management
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Manage regional budgets effectively.
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Monitor expenses and control costs.
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Prepare management reports and performance updates.
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Use financial data to guide strategic decisions.
Experience & Requirements
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Bachelor’s Degree (preferred).
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Valid driver’s license.
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Minimum 5+ years’ experience in FMCG sales.
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Proven experience managing third-party distribution partners.
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Strong sales team leadership experience.
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Experience in regional accounts and independent trade channels.
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Key account management experience (advantageous).
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Strong understanding of South African market structure and trade practices.
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Excellent negotiation and influencing skills.
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Strong analytical and commercial acumen.
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Ability to develop strategy and translate it into execution.
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Advanced MS Office skills (especially Excel & PowerPoint).
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Strong presentation skills.
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Ability to work independently and travel extensively.
Work Structure
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80% Field Work: Trade visits, distribution management, relationship building.
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20% Office Work: Data analysis, planning, reporting, budgeting, and strategy development.