Distributor Specialist

Distribution Specialist ‒ General Trade (FMCG Confectionary)

Role Purpose

Ensure confectionery products are consistently available, properly displayed, and perform well in General Trade channels (sari‑sari stores, small independent retailers, wet markets, etc.), to drive volume, market penetration, and brand visibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Outlet / General Trade Coverage & Merchandising

• Maintain and expand outlet coverage; regularly visit assigned stores to ensure product availability of all required SKUs.

• Monitor shelf space, share‑of‑shelf, planograms / display compliance, promotional materials / POPs are in place.

• Check product condition, packaging, expiry dates; ensure display is clean, neat and attractive.

• Distributor / Route Partner Management

• Liaise with distributors / route sales partners to ensure timely delivery, order fulfillment, restocking.

• Monitor and ensure compliance with distributor agreements (delivery schedules, coverage, merchandising obligations).

• Support and coach distributor / merchandiser staff for better execution.

• Sales & Growth

• Achieve sales / volume targets in assigned territories via General Trade outlets.

• Identify new potential outlets and opportunities to increase penetration.

• Monitor competitor activity and pricing; respond via promotions / trade support.

• Promotions & Campaign Execution

• Execute trade promotions, price offs, seasonal campaigns specific to confectionery (e.g. festive seasons, school months, holidays).

• Ensure that promotional materials (banners, displays, standees) are delivered, installed, refreshed.

• Reporting & Data Analysis

• Generate regular reports: outlet coverage, fill rate, out‑of‑stock occurrences, returns (bad orders), expiry or damaged goods.

• Track KPIs such as distribution %, merchandising compliance, sales vs forecast, margin / trade costs.

• Logistics & Inventory Management

• Work with internal supply chain / warehouse / transport to ensure sufficient product supply; avoid stockouts.

• Monitor buffer stocks, ensure FIFO (first in first out) rotation, manage trade returns / unsold stock.

• Customer & Relationship Management

• Build and maintain relationships with store owners, local distributors / wholesalers.

• Listen to field feedback (consumer preferences, competitor moves) and relay to marketing / product teams.

• Field Work

• Frequent field visits; willingness to travel within assigned territory; multitier terrain / remote stores.

• Flexibility in working hours, including weekends / market/peak times as needed.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Marketing, Commerce, Supply Chain, or related field; equivalent work experience may be acceptable.

• Preferably 2‑4 years experience in General Trade / Outlet distribution in FMCG. Confectionery experience is a strong plus.

• Experience working with distributors / route sales, and executing field merchandising.

Skills & Technical Competencies

• Strong understanding of General Trade dynamics: outlet types, small retailer behavior, pricing sensitivity, display challenges.

• Good negotiation / communication skills (both English and Filipino / local dialects).

• Proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel for data tracking / reports), ability to work with simple mobile reporting tools or CRM / SFA apps.

• Analytical skills: ability to interpret sales / coverage data, spot gaps, propose corrective action.

Personal Attributes

• Results‑driven, proactive, high sense of ownership.

• Resilient & adaptable: able to cope with field challenges (traffic, remote stores, delay, etc.).

• Attention to detail: display, packaging condition, expiry, merchandising compliance.

• Strong interpersonal skills / relationship building.

Other Requirements

• Willingness to travel / spend many hours in field.

• Valid driver's license could be an advantage (if supervising or doing own delivery / movement).

• Able to carry out physical tasks (e.g., carrying boxes, installing displays).