Are you motivated by building new business and expanding into untapped markets? We have already established a strong retail presence across Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland – now we are looking for someone to drive our next phase of growth across Europe

ABENA is a global company supplying a wide range of FMCG products to customers in more than 98 countries. As part of our continued growth, we are strengthening our commercial focus on the retail segment across Europe. We are looking for an Area Sales Manager who wants to take ownership of developing our retail presence across selected European markets.  

This role plays a central part in making that happen. 

The role combines strategy and execution. You will not step into a finished setup—you will build it. Working closely with the International Director, you will define how we approach these markets, from identifying the right customers and product focus to shaping our go-to-market strategy and executing it. 

That means starting with market insight and customer mapping, creating the first commercial traction, and over time contributing to how we scale and structure the area. 

Your main responsibilities 

• Identify and prioritize target markets, customers, and retail segments 
• Develop and execute go-to-market strategies for selected European markets 
• Build and manage relationships with key retail customers such as supermarkets, pharmacy chains, DIY stores, and cash & carry 
• Drive direct sales activities and support distributors in strengthening their retail sales 
• Analyze market potential, customer needs, and product opportunities to guide commercial decisions 
• Contribute to building structure and scalability, including the foundation for future team development 

What we hope you bring 

• Experience with sales in retail, FMCG, healthcare products, or similar 
• Experience from within a retail organization is an advantage  
• A proactive and entrepreneurial approach 
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to turn insights into concrete actions 
• Persistence in following up on opportunities and moving them forward 
• Relationship-building skills and a customer-first mindset 
• Comfort working across markets and cultures in an international environment 

Your team, our culture and values 

In ABENA, you will be part of an international and collaborative organization where we value trust, cooperation, and a strong sense of responsibility. 

We work closely across functions and markets, and we believe the best results come from combining structures with flexibility, and ambition with a supportive working environment.  

Our sales philosophy is simple: strong results are built on trust. We aim to understand our customers’ business and create value that supports long-term partnerships, not just short-term transactions. 

Because we care about how we work together—and the impact we create for our customers. 

Your leader at ABENA will be International Director Claus Espersen, who describes their leadership style as trust-based, direct, and supportive: 

“I believe in giving ownership and space to take initiative, while being close enough to support when needed. In this role, you will have a real opportunity to shape your own area—and I will support you in making it happen.” 

We look forward to hearing from you and receiving your application 

If you are interested in the position, please send your CV as soon as possible. We review applications as we receive them and will close the search once we have found our new colleague. 

Due to the summer holiday period, there may be a longer response time. 

Read more about our recruitment process here.  

If you are curious to learn more about the job, you are welcome to contact International Director Claus Espersen at +45 5158 1868. 

As a family-owned company with a strong global presence, we are built on trust, fairness, and cooperation — values that guide how we support one another and grow together. Here, you’ll find room to explore your potential, develop new skills, and make a meaningful difference.

Join us, and shape a career that truly makes an impact.

BECAUSE WE CARE 

www.abena.com/career