Category Head - Coffee (12-15 yrs)

Category Head - Coffee

The Category Head - Coffee will function as Business Manager with P&L responsibility overseeing the end-to-end value chain of coffee for both domestic and international B2B markets. The role involves developing and executing strategies for sales, and market expansion, procurement, farmer relationships. Additionally, the Category Head will ensure the highest quality standards, optimize supply chain operations, and drive the division's growth and profitability. This leadership role requires managing a team of professionals and collaborating across functions to achieve business goals

Key Responsibilities:

1. B2B Sales and Market Development

- Develop and implement sales strategies to expand the customer base in India and international markets.

- Build and maintain relationships with key B2B clients.

- Identify emerging market trends and business opportunities to ensure competitive positioning.

- Achieve revenue and profitability targets by leveraging market intelligence and customer insights.

2. Strategic Planning and Execution

- Contribute to the formulation of the overall business strategy and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

- Drive continuous improvement in operational efficiencies, supply chain management, and cost optimization.

- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies across the value chain.

3. Market and Industry Analysis

- Analyse market trends, competitive landscapes, and customer demands to inform business decisions.

- Monitor commodity price movements and leverage insights for pricing and sourcing strategies.

- Forecast demand and manage inventory to align with market dynamics.

4. Procurement and Farmer/Producer Relationships

- Design and execute sourcing strategies to procure high-quality coffee, directly from farmers and producer groups.

- Establish and nurture long-term relationships with farmers and other stakeholders.

- Drive initiatives to support sustainable farming practices and ensure ethical sourcing.

- Optimize procurement costs while maintaining consistent quality.

5. Quality Assurance and Control

- Ensure adherence to stringent quality standards across the procurement, processing, and delivery stages.

- Collaborate with quality control teams to address customer specifications and requirements.

- Oversee audits and certifications necessary for export and premium markets.

6. Leadership and Team Management

- Lead, motivate, and manage a cross-functional team of sales, procurement, quality, and logistics professionals.

- Set clear objectives, provide regular feedback, and foster a culture of collaboration and high performance.

- Develop talent through coaching, mentoring, and training initiatives.

Key Qualifications and Skills:

- Education: MBA/PGDM in Agri business preferably, Marketing, or a related field; Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Food Technology, or similar disciplines preferred.

- Experience: 12-15 years of experience in B2B Category Management, Sales agricultural commodities (Coffee experience desired), B2B sales and value chain management, with at least 4 years in a leadership role.

- Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of the beverage commodity markets.

Skills:

- Proven ability to drive B2B sales and develop long-term customer relationships.

- Expertise in procurement and farmer relationship management.

- Solid grasp of quality assurance processes and standards.

- Strong analytical and market research capabilities.

- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

- Proficiency in financial planning, budgeting, and performance analysis.