Assistant Manager - New Business Development
The Colombo Ice Company Limited
Assistant Manager – New Business Development
The Colombo Ice Company Limited (CICL), manufacturer of Elephant House Ice Creams is a leading consumer food company in Sri Lanka. CICL is a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC.
We seek a highly motivated and results-driven individual to join our team as Assistant Manager – New Business Development. The primary responsibility of this role is to drive the international growth of our brands through the identification and development of new export markets and distribution partnerships. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in FMCG export business development, strong commercial acumen, and a passion for opening new frontiers.
Job Responsibilities
- Identify and assess new export market opportunities through in-depth research, market analysis, and competitive landscape evaluations.
- Build and expand a strong network of international distributors, agents, and retail partners to drive the company’s growth in overseas markets.
- Prepare and deliver compelling business proposals, presentations, and pitches to internal stakeholders for approvals and to external customers to secure new business.
- Drive acquisition efforts by presenting the company’s strengths, sector expertise, and product portfolio with clarity, enthusiasm, and conviction.
- Provide strategic recommendations based on market potential and feasibility, enabling the company to make informed decisions about new market entry and product placement.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams such as marketing, supply chain, and finance to align new business initiatives with operational capabilities.
- Maintain accurate records of market leads, partner communications, and business development activities. Regularly update management on progress and market insights.
Person Specifications
- Degree in Business Management, Marketing, or International Business with 3–5 years of proven experience in FMCG export business development.
- A sound understanding of international trade dynamics and FMCG market expansion strategies.
- Strong track record of identifying new markets and successfully onboarding international distributors or clients.
- Exceptional skills in identifying leads, building relationships, negotiating deals, and closing partnerships.
- Competence in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with CRM systems will be an advantage.
- Strong interpersonal abilities to build rapport, influence decisions, and maintain long-term partnerships.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a high level of persistence.
- The successful candidate should be open to international travel as required by business needs. A self-starter attitude, curiosity about new markets, and a customer-first mindset will be key to excelling in this role.
If you are confident that you possess the above requirement, please send your cv, which includes the names of two non-related referees. Click on the advert now to join our team via Elephant House Careers site.