FMCG Sales Directors lead the entire commercial function, setting go-to-market strategy, managing key customer relationships at Director level, and accountable for total net revenue and volume. They build and develop sales teams, set channel strategies, and represent the business externally with the highest-value accounts.
Senior NAM / Controller (6–9 yrs)
Entry level — gaining FMCG foundations
Head of Sales / Commercial (8–12 yrs)
Mid-level — building core expertise (10–15 years)
Sales Director (10–15 yrs)
Senior — leading teams and strategy
Commercial Director / CCO (15+ yrs)
Head / Controller — full functional ownership
MD / CEO
Director / C-Suite — board-level accountability
Commercial strategy & direction
Core competency for Sales Director roles
Senior customer relationship management
Core competency for Sales Director roles
Team building & people leadership
Core competency for Sales Director roles
Channel strategy (grocery, convenience, foodservice, export)
Core competency for Sales Director roles
P&L ownership at company/category level
Core competency for Sales Director roles
Strategic negotiation
Core competency for Sales Director roles
Sales forecasting & budgeting
Core competency for Sales Director roles
Cross-functional leadership
Core competency for Sales Director roles
These are the skills that differentiate senior Sales Directors: International or export market experience, Private equity or transformation experience, M&A integration, DTC and e-commerce channel strategy. Investing in these capabilities alongside core skills typically unlocks faster progression and higher salary offers.
Browse live FMCG Sales Director jobs posted on FMCG Hire — updated daily.