Director - Fresh Produce - North America (Chicago)

Position: Director – Fresh Produce – North AmericaLocation: OPENEuropean Seed Company, whose main business is R&D, production, marketing and sales of tomato / pepper seeds, is recruiting an individual to lead their Fresh Produce division in North America.This position is a combination of business development and strategic positioning of the company’s products, with retailers and primary suppliers.The individual will develop and design a Go TO Market strategy to approach different retailers and suppliers in North America. Expected to interact and communicate the company’s market capabilities and build relationships with senior individuals at those Key Accounts.Responsibilities:Structuring a long-term product development plan and sales budget.Drive demand generation with a focus on the assigned areaField promotional activities such as exploring the demo greenhouse, variety campaigns, customer connections and marketing activitiesField days and Field trips in the demo greenhouseActively manage relationships with growers, Distributors and RetailersFocus on accurate and timely planning and placement of varietiesRegularly report sales and other commercial activitiesDevelop and maintain relationships with key influencers in the industryEvaluating, adjusting, and managing our sales and product pipeline.Achieve sales revenue targets for the sales regionExecute a plan for the growth in North America to increase market share and lead growthAdvise the company on product mixes in market segments to achieve profitable volume and market shares at levels of acceptable risks.Collaborate with research, technical, marketing, and finance teams to evaluate and measure product benefits and value, create value propositions and develop value capture and pricing models.Work with the customer support team to ensure reliable supply (mix, quantity, and quality) consistent with strategic business plans.Develop executable product/brand plansPlan, coordinate and set directions for new product launchesPosition preliminary requirements:>7 years of experience in the Agro vegetables sector in North America.Have some combination of experience in the area of Product Placement and Business DevelopmentAcademic education in agriculture.