Company Profile:
Company Profile A leading regional group with established expertise in FMCG distribution, with a strong focus on Cosmetics, Personal Care, and consumer goods. The group is expanding its operations in Syria through the establishment of a new FMCG distribution business, initially focused on the Cosmetics and Personal Care sector. The new operation will build on an established regional business platform and aims to develop its commercial portfolio, distribution network, local team, and market presence in Syria. The appointed General Manager will play a key role in transforming the business plan into a fully operational business, leading the setup, commercial development, operations, team building, and overall performance of the new Syrian operation.
Job Description:
Job Description The General Manager – Syria will lead the establishment, launch, and development of a new FMCG distribution operation in Syria, initially focused on the Cosmetics and Personal Care sector. This is a build-from-the-ground-up leadership role. The successful candidate will be responsible for translating the business plan into operational reality, establishing the required infrastructure and processes, building the initial team, developing the commercial and distribution strategy, and driving sustainable business growth. Key Responsibilities - Review and fine-tune the business plan, priorities, budgets, and implementation milestones. - Lead the set-up and launch of the company’s operation in Syria. - Establish the required processes, controls, reporting mechanisms, infrastructure, suppliers, and operational framework. - Define the initial organizational structure and recruit and build the local team. - Develop and execute the company’s commercial and distribution strategy, including route-to-market and channel development. - Assess the Syrian market and identify relevant business, portfolio, and growth opportunities. - Identify and engage potential international and local principals and brands. - Lead commercial negotiations and support the development of the company’s brand and product portfolio. - Build and scale sales across relevant channels, including retail, wholesale, traditional trade, and modern trade, as applicable. - Take full ownership of P&L, budgeting, forecasting, and profitability. - Build strong relationships with key customers, partners, suppliers, principals, and other stakeholders. - Establish a performance-driven and entrepreneurial culture while maintaining strong accountability and operational discipline. - Ensure the business operates effectively within the local regulatory and commercial environment.
Desired Skills and Experience:
Desired Skills and Experience - 12–15+ years of relevant professional experience in FMCG, with strong commercial and leadership exposure. - Proven experience in FMCG Distribution and Route-to-Market. - Strong expertise in Sales & Commercial Management. - Strong understanding of Key Accounts and Trade Marketing. - Experience in Brand Building, Portfolio Strategy, and Product Launches. - Solid experience in P&L Management, Budgeting, Forecasting, and Profitability. - Proven ability to build and lead multifunctional teams. - Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills, including dealing with suppliers, business partners, and principals. - Demonstrated experience operating in an entrepreneurial, start-up, or build-from-scratch environment. - Strong knowledge of the Syrian market and local business environment. - Strong operational, execution, and problem-solving capabilities. - High level of autonomy, ownership, accountability, and commercial drive. - Fluency in Arabic and English. - Cosmetics, Personal Care, or Beauty experience is strongly preferred. - Experience with international brands/principals is an advantage. - International/GCC exposure is an advantage. - MBA or equivalent postgraduate qualification is preferred. General Manager Syria - Brief
Job Type:
Full-time
Education Level:
Bachelor's Degree
Career Level:
5-10 Years Experience
Gender:
No Preference
Company Industry:
FMCG, Retail & Supermarket
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