Export Sales Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of global commerce, the role of Export Sales Managers has never been more critical.

As trade boundaries continue to blur, the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, expand, and secure our global sales channels grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Export Sales Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the intricate dynamics of international sales,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Export Sales Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Export Sales Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Export Sales Managers are responsible for managing the sales of products or services to customers in other countries.

They work closely with other teams within the organization, such as marketing and supply chain, to ensure that products are delivered on time and meet customer expectations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing effective sales strategies
• Leading a team of sales professionals to achieve sales targets
• Negotiating contracts with potential clients and manage existing client relationships
• Identifying and reaching out to potential customers in international markets
• Collaborating with the marketing team to develop effective promotional materials
• Analysing market trends and competitors
• Monitoring and reporting on sales performance analytics
• Providing guidance and insight to the sales team to develop their skills and performance
• Ensuring all sales operations comply with country-specific export regulations
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with key clients and customer stakeholders

 

Export Sales Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a driven and experienced Export Sales Manager to increase sales and lead our team of sales representatives.

This role will entail developing sales strategies, meeting sales targets, and promoting our products and services to new and existing overseas customers.

Our ideal candidate has a proven track record in sales management, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of the export market and related regulations.

Ultimately, the role of the Export Sales Manager is to maintain customer satisfaction while boosting our company’s export sales and revenue.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and implement strategic export sales plans to expand the customer base and ensure its strong presence
• Identify emerging markets and market shifts while being fully aware of new products and competition status
• Build and promote strong, long-lasting customer relationships by partnering with them and understanding their needs
• Present sales, revenue, and expense reports and realistic forecasts to the management team
• Ensure customer service standards and satisfaction levels are high
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure consistency in product delivery and company policies
• Stay updated with international trade regulations and customs requirements

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a sales manager or similar role in export sales
• Successful previous experience meeting sales targets and managing sales teams
• Strong business sense and industry expertise in international trade and export
• Excellent mentoring, coaching, and people management skills
• Understanding of CRM systems and best practices
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• BSc degree in Business Administration, Marketing, International Business or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Travel and accommodation expenses covered
• Opportunity for international travel

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Export Sales Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent international travel.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Sales and Marketing.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $105,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Export Sales Manager Do?

An Export Sales Manager is primarily responsible for overseeing and coordinating the international sales activities of a company.

Their job entails researching and identifying potential international markets, and developing strategies to penetrate these markets to increase the company’s global market share.

Export Sales Managers work closely with the marketing team to promote products or services overseas.

They also liaise with logistics and shipping departments to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of products.

Moreover, they are responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with international distributors, retailers, or wholesalers.

They negotiate contracts, prices, timelines and plan the export processes from start to finish.

They also handle the documentation process required for international shipping and customs clearance, ensuring all transactions comply with international trade laws and regulations.

Export Sales Managers often need to possess knowledge of foreign languages and international business practices.

They also need to be aware of the economic and political conditions of the countries they work with and adapt their strategies accordingly.

In addition, they are responsible for setting and achieving sales targets, monitoring competitor activity, and providing customer service to international clients.

 

Export Sales Manager Qualifications and Skills

An Export Sales Manager should possess a combination of technical skills, industry knowledge, and soft skills to ensure they can handle the demanding nature of international sales and business development.

These can include:

• Proven sales experience with a track record of achieving targets and driving sales growth in a business environment
• Understanding of export procedures and documentation, including knowledge of international trade regulations
• Strong commercial awareness and excellent negotiation skills to secure profitable contracts
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills to liaise effectively with clients and team members across different cultures and languages
• Ability to develop and implement effective sales strategies
• Excellent problem-solving skills to handle any issues that may arise during the export process
• Knowledge of a second language could be beneficial due to the international nature of the role
• Ability to travel frequently to meet with customers and explore potential markets

 

Export Sales Manager Experience Requirements

To qualify for an Export Sales Manager position, candidates typically need a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in export sales or international business.

This experience should ideally include managing relationships with international clients, understanding international trade regulations, and developing sales strategies for foreign markets.

Candidates who have worked in a sales role that involved selling to international customers might have the relevant experience required for this role.

This could include roles such as International Sales Representative, Export Sales Coordinator, or International Business Development Manager.

Export Sales Managers often need to have experience dealing with customs, shipping, and import-export laws, which can be gained through roles in logistics, shipping, or customs departments.

Those with over 5 years of experience in export sales may have the leadership and strategic planning experience required for senior-level roles.

This could include experience managing a sales team, developing and implementing sales strategies, and managing large accounts or key clients.

Further, those aspiring to this role should ideally have experience in the specific industry in which they intend to work, as each industry has its unique challenges and requirements related to international trade and export.

 

Export Sales Manager Education and Training Requirements

Export Sales Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in business, international business, sales, marketing or a related field.

Knowledge of foreign languages, global economy, and cultural understanding are beneficial.

They should also have a strong grasp of sales principles and customer relationship management.

Aside from formal education, many companies prefer candidates with several years of sales experience, especially if it’s in the international market.

For higher level positions, a master’s degree in business administration or international business may be preferred.

Certifications in sales management, international trade, or supply chain can help enhance professional credibility.

Ongoing training in international trade regulations, export procedures, and cultural sensitivity is essential to keep up with changes in the field.

Understanding of export laws and regulations, along with negotiation skills and the ability to deal with complex issues under pressure, are also crucial for an Export Sales Manager.

 

Export Sales Manager Salary Expectations

An Export Sales Manager earns an average salary of $78,467 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can differ based on factors such as the industry, level of experience, qualifications, and the specific region in which they work.

 

Export Sales Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Export Sales Manager need?

Export Sales Managers should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as they will be liaising with clients and colleagues across different cultures and languages.

They should also possess strong sales and negotiation skills, as well as a broad understanding of international trade and export regulations.

The ability to analyze market trends and develop strategies based on these trends is also crucial.

 

Do Export Sales Managers need a degree?

While there are no strict educational requirements, most Export Sales Managers hold a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field.

Knowledge in international trade or business can be advantageous.

Some companies may prefer candidates with a Master’s degree in International Business or an MBA.

 

What should you look for in an Export Sales Manager resume?

In addition to a degree in a relevant field, look for experience in sales, particularly in an international or export environment.

Knowledge of export regulations and practices, as well as experience in market analysis and strategy development, are also important.

Proficiency in multiple languages and international work experience can be a significant advantage.

 

What qualities make a good Export Sales Manager?

A good Export Sales Manager has excellent communication skills and is comfortable dealing with clients and colleagues from different cultures and backgrounds.

They have strong negotiation skills and a clear understanding of international trade laws and regulations.

They’re also strategic thinkers, able to identify opportunities in international markets and develop effective export strategies.

 

What are the challenges faced by an Export Sales Manager?

An Export Sales Manager may face challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, understanding and complying with foreign regulations, and managing international logistics.

They may also face challenges related to fluctuations in exchange rates, political instability in export markets, and international competition.

Therefore, staying up-to-date with global events and understanding their impact on sales is crucial.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on what it truly means to be an export sales manager.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about selling goods overseas.

It’s about strategizing international sales, one deal at a time.

With our comprehensive export sales manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why halt your journey here?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting meticulous job listings or perfecting your resume to the tee.

Keep in mind:

Every deal signed is a part of a broader global strategy.

Let’s strategize that future. Together.

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