Commercial and Technical Manager at Aviagen Tanzania

To contribute to the achievement of Aviagen East Africa’s commercial objectives by delivering comprehensive, professional technical support to customers, ensuring the consistent, high-quality performance of Aviagen products in the region.

Job Description:

1. Sales Strategy & Business Development

• Develop and execute the AEAL sales strategy to achieve and exceed PS (Parent Stock) sales targets.
• Prepare sales forecasts, including product mix and volumes, and define rate and timing for price increases.
• Collect PS orders from customers and manage them to optimize hatchery capacity and minimize losses.
• Gather key market intelligence and customer insights across the SSA region to identify new opportunities and inform strategic decision-making.
• Develop annual business plans and budgets, including competitor and market analysis, to meet agreed business goals in the East Africa region.
• Support the central marketing team with advertisements, promotional initiatives, trade fairs, and general business promotion activities.
• Organize and lead sales, technical, and Aviagen meetings with customers to maintain engagement and alignment.

2. Customer Relationship Management

• Identify key customers and ensure they are visited regularly to build long-term relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
• Address customer concerns related to sales, delivery, and product performance promptly and effectively.
• Work collaboratively with customers to implement Product Improvement Plans, address technical challenges, and enhance economic outcomes.
• Maintain strong relationships with senior management within customer businesses, ensuring a deep understanding of their needs, issues, and growth potential.
• Attend customer events, poultry shows, and internal Aviagen meetings to maintain market presence and strengthen client engagement.
• Ensure all visit details, contact information, and reports are entered into the Aviagen DCRM system within two weeks of each visit.

3. Technical Services & Support

• Ensure customers receive appropriate levels of support from specialists in hatchery, nutrition, and veterinary health to deliver high-quality, comprehensive advice.
• Monitor product performance and customer outcomes, using tools like Easyflock or other systems to collect and track structured technical data.
• Work with international technical colleagues to share knowledge, contribute to global projects, and ensure consistent service delivery across regions.
• Follow up on agreed technical plans to measure effectiveness and continue strengthening customer relationships.
• Stay up to date with the latest developments in Aviagen’s product range and technical offerings.

4. Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and manage the sales and technical team by setting clear objectives, monitoring performance, and fostering a culture of motivation and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the sales and technical budget, ensuring effective cost control and seeking opportunities to enhance service delivery.

5. Regulatory, Logistical & Administrative Coordination

• Maintain awareness of and liaise with relevant government authorities, regulatory bodies, and industry organizations in East Africa to influence policy and standards.
• Establish coordination among customs commissioners, logistics providers, and public institutions to ensure smooth operations.
• Track and manage legal documentation, permissions, and export requirements in line with local and international regulations.
• Ensure timely completion of administrative routines, including monthly reports, expenses, and other operational procedures.
• Maintain regular communication and collaboration with other departmental managers.

Financial Management: Plan and manage the budget for the Sales and Technical Service team.

Travel: Travel internationally within the region for approximately 120–140 days per year, including some weekends.

Personal Requirements for the role:

Specific Experience:

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in the poultry industry, including at least 2 years in technical service and customer-facing roles
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose issues and propose effective solutions across a wide range of technical challenges
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence individuals across various management levels, cultures, and personalities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to manage and collaborate effectively with diverse teams
• Residing in the East Africa region or willing to relocate to Tanzania or Kenya

Personal Qualities:

• Demonstrates a high level of integrity, professionalism, and a strong team-oriented mindset
• Capable of working independently with minimal supervision
• Culturally sensitive and respectful towards diverse backgrounds
• Committed to continuous improvement and maximizing operational efficiency
• Strong and influential communicator, able to engage effectively across various management levels, cultures, and personalities; fosters a positive and collaborative team environment
• Fluent in English; knowledge of any East African language is an advantage

Qualifications:

• A formal qualification in Agriculture or Poultry Husbandry is desirable
• A university degree or equivalent experience demonstrating strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• International work experience is an advantage, particularly within the East African region