German speaking Sales Associate (New Business Development)

German speaking Sales Associate (New Business Development)

Ref: KM47208

Overview

Sector: Sector Sales/Business Development

Type: Full-time, Permanent

Location: Germany - Düsseldorf/Cologne

Salary (Annual): €40,000–€45,000 per annum (dependent on experience)

A Japanese-owned wellness brand is seeking a motivated Sales Associate to join its European headquarters in Düsseldorf. The company operates across 35 European countries, marketing premium wellness products under two established consumer brands — and is now accelerating a strategic pivot from specialist adult retail into mainstream channels such as supermarkets, drugstores, department stores and petrol station forecourts. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career sales professional with a hunger for new business development. The business is transitioning from distributor-led sales to a direct-sales model, and the successful candidate will play a central role in building new retail partnerships across Germany and beyond. Full support and mentorship from the Head of Office will be provided.

Main Responsibilities

• Reporting to the Head of Office, you will be responsible for developing new retail accounts and supporting the growth of direct sales channels across Germany and Europe.
• Identify and approach prospective retail partners in mainstream channels (supermarkets, drugstores, department stores, petrol station forecourts, etc.).
• Build and manage a pipeline of new business opportunities across Germany and assigned European territories.
• Conduct sales presentations and product demonstrations to retail buyers and category managers.
• Negotiate and close commercial agreements with new accounts.
• Maintain and develop relationships with existing customers to support retention and upsell.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity and customer feedback to inform sales strategy.
• Collaborate with the marketing team on trade events, PR activations and in-store campaigns.
• Manage order processing and coordinate with the operations team on B2B and e-commerce fulfilment.
• Prepare regular sales reports and present performance updates to the Head of Office and Japan HQ.

Ideal Candidate

• Required: Experience in sales of physical / tangible consumer goods (industry open).
• Required: Professional proficiency in English and German.
• Required: Demonstrable track record in new business development and client acquisition.
• Required: Self-motivated, flexible and eager to learn — junior candidates are actively encouraged to apply.
• Desired: Existing network within the retail or FMCG sector.
• Desired: Interest in or knowledge of the sexual wellness / consumer healthcare space.
• Desired: Ability to adapt to a Japanese corporate decision-making environment.
• Desired: Experience supporting marketing, events or PR activities.
• Desired: Business-level Japanese language skills.

Administrative note: All applicants for the German speaking Sales Associate must have the right to work in the country without any restrictions as the Company is not able to offer visa support.