Business Development Specialist (Berlin & Hamburg)

Job Title: Business Development Specialist (Berlin & Hamburg)

Location: Field‑based, covering Berlin and Hamburg metropolitan areas (with occasional travel within Germany as needed)

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain long‑term partnerships across key retail channels in Berlin and Hamburg, including tobacco retailers (kiosks, shisha shops), supermarkets, e‑commerce platforms, and MD (multi‑channel distributors). Drive channel coverage and achieve monthly/quarterly sales targets in these two core cities.
• Market Analysis & Local Strategy
• Conduct in‑depth analysis of regional market dynamics, consumer behaviours, and competitive activities specifically in Berlin and Hamburg. Formulate localised sales strategies and expansion plans to maximise penetration and revenue growth in these high‑potential urban markets.
• As a core member of the Germany team, focus on execution in Berlin and Hamburg while collaborating with colleagues covering other regions to share insights, replicate successful models, and support broader European business development initiatives.
• Client Needs Management
• Proactively engage with channel partners to understand their business requirements. Coordinate internal resources (marketing, product, supply chain, etc.) to deliver tailored solutions that enhance product visibility and sell‑through at store level.
• Track channel sales performance and sell‑out data. Systematically collect competitor intelligence (e.g., Elfbar, Vozol, Flerbar) on product displays, pricing, and promotions. Identify market opportunities and promptly report customer feedback and industry shifts.

Requirements

Legal Status & Authorization (Mandatory Requirement)

• A valid German work authorization / work visa (non‑student visa) is mandatory. Candidates without the required legal status cannot be considered for this position.

Experience & Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in sales.
• Minimum 3 years of channel sales experience in the e‑cigarette, tobacco, or FMCG industry. Strong knowledge of the retail landscape in Berlin and Hamburg, with existing relationships in supermarkets, tobacco shops, e‑commerce, or MD channels, is highly preferred.
• Proven track record in B2B sales, with demonstrated skills in negotiation, relationship building, and independent business development. Verifiable sales performance metrics required.
• Strong team‑player mindset with a high sense of responsibility; ability to perform effectively in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment.

Language Requirements

• Fluent German (C1 level or above) for business negotiations and daily communication.
• Business‑fluent English (written and spoken) for internal reporting and cross‑functional communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with German and EU tobacco/e‑cigarette regulations (e.g., Tabaksteuergesetz, TPD).
• Experience in launching new markets or building channels from scratch (“0‑to‑1” experience).
• Valid German driver’s license (essential for frequent store visits across both cities).