Business Manager

Cluster Commercial Leader Balkans

The Cluster Commercial Leader, Balkans at Corteva Agriscience will be responsible for strategic and operational development of business in the region, high-quality people management and development, for leading and expanding Corteva's presence within the region. This role combines strategic sales leadership, cross-functional team management, and in-depth market development to support the company's growth in the agricultural sector. The ideal candidate will be skilled in both direct and indirect sales, possess a strong understanding of local market dynamics, and be a champion of Corteva's core values.

Principal Accountabilities

• Sales Leadership and Strategic Growth
• Lead direct and indirect sales activities, focusing on maximizing market share and profitability in Balkans.
• Design and execute the local business plan through ensuring alignment with regional and global objectives.
• Team Leadership and Development
• Act as the Direct Line Supervisor for local Account Managers and Marketing Sales Representatives, fostering a culture of high performance and accountability.
• Provide leadership for the Bulgarian, Serbian, Croatian and Slovenian Commercial team
• Mentor and coach the sales team, offering guidance on performance goals, professional development, and adherence to Corteva’s core values.
• Account Management and Partner Relations
• Personally manage relationships with selected key accounts, serving as a trusted advisor and ensuring client satisfaction and retention.
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with key distributors and other stakeholders to drive market penetration and brand loyalty.
• Financial and Operational Accountability
• Oversee financial performance, including profitability targets and budget adherence, to ensure sustained growth and success in the Balkans market.
• Drive the development and execution of effective pricing strategies that align with regional standards, ensuring the organization remains competitive and achieves profitability targets within the countries market.
• Oversee budget management and financial planning processes, ensuring resources are allocated strategically to support growth objectives.
• Monitor financial performance indicators, adjusting strategies as needed to optimize revenue, control costs, and sustain long-term profitability.
• Ensure compliance with corporate financial policies and local regulations, maintaining transparency and accountability in all financial operations.

Major Functions

• Sales Performance: Drive and monitor sales performance, utilizing KPIs to measure success and adapt strategies as necessary.
• Pricing and Strategy Alignment: Develop pricing strategies consistent with European standards while catering to local market dynamics.
• Coaching and Mentorship: Actively coach the sales team, regularly reviewing individual and collective performance to foster growth.

Major Challenges

• Sustain and grow a profitable business in Balkans amidst competitive and evolving market dynamics.
• Balance direct and indirect sales channels to maximize market reach and profitability.
• Build and promote a strong, collaborative team culture in the market.

Key Contacts

• Reports directly to the Commercial Unit Leader
• Collaborates closely with members of the Southern & Eastern European Leadership Team.

Qualifications

• Education: Agronomy background with business administration or advanced degree preferred.
• Experience: 5–10 years in sales leadership, with a proven track record in team management and strategic business development.
• Skills:
• Leadership and coaching capabilities with a focus on team building and performance enhancement.
• Strong knowledge of agricultural product markets
• Proficiency in managing complex sales channels and distribution networks.

This role is ideal for a dynamic, results-driven leader eager to shape Corteva's success in Balkans and beyond. The Cluster Commercial Leader will play a critical role in promoting agricultural innovation, driving market growth, and ensuring Corteva's values are reflected in every facet of the business.

Corteva Agriscience is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws.