Business Development Manager, Global Distributor Market

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with world class purpose driven brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. As Lipton Teas and Infusions we are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.

 

In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) business from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is even better positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value, and a greater impact on the wider world. With 11 production factories in four continents and tea growing estates in three countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is a profitable and growing business whose brands reach hundreds of millions of consumers. It has a presence in over 100 countries.

 

At LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we work alongside people who put consumer love at the heart of every decision. Diverse minds who celebrate new ideas, share our values and the commitment we have for the wellbeing of all. In return, we create an environment that gives our people space and freedom, where they can grow as leaders. A connected community where ideas can thrive. Where you explore new challenges. Learning all you need to master your field, and even more about yourself.

 

Be part of this amazing blend. Join our collective and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.

Job Title: Business Development Manager, Global Distributor Markets

Job Status: Full-time, Permanent

Work location: Hoboken, NJ

Travel: 50%

 

Overview

Join Lipton Teas and Infusions as a Business Development Manager in our Global Distributor Markets (GDM) team, a high-impact group responsible for driving growth in over 80 markets worldwide. In this pivotal role, you’ll act as the business owner for select distributor-led markets, managing end-to-end commercial activities and delivering growth through strategic partnerships, portfolio expansion, and in-market execution. With a strong commercial acumen, you'll unlock new white space opportunities, support cross-functional innovation projects, and ensure consistent brand presence across key global regions. This is a dynamic role offering the chance to shape the future of Lipton’s presence in diaspora and export markets across North America and beyond.

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the primary business owner for assigned markets and distributors, managing end-to-end commercial operations.
• Serve as the sales expert and central point of contact for regions without a local Lipton legal entity.
• Drive portfolio expansion through assortment optimization and strategic growth initiatives.
• Develop and execute Joint Business Plans (JBPs) annually with distributors and key customers.
• Identify and unlock white space opportunities across consumer groups and sales channels (e.g. diaspora, travel retail, well-being).
• Lead in-market execution of launches and promotional activities in collaboration with marketing and trade teams.
• Provide ongoing market analysis, secondary reporting, and data-driven recommendations to optimize market performance.
• Oversee S&OP inputs, order collection, and operational alignment with internal sales and supply chain teams.
• Contribute to innovation and cross-functional projects by representing sales priorities and market needs.
• Maintain accurate pricing, portfolio templates, and a centralized library of trade/marketing materials for use across stakeholders.

 

Skills and Experience:

• 9+ years of commercial experience in FMCG, with 3+ years in sales, distributor management, or trade marketing.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field.
• Proven ability to manage distributor relationships and drive execution in diverse, cross-cultural markets.
• Strong project management capabilities and experience with end-to-end planning cycles (e.g. S&OP, forecasting).
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills; adept at translating insights into action.
• Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint; experience with SAP is a plus.
• Experience within the beverages/tea category, B2B, foodservice, or e-commerce channels is a strong advantage.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken); additional languages are a plus.

A Great Place to Grow 

Here at LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we grow a world of wellbeing to generate value for all. 

• Grow your LEADERSHIP – Thought leader or people leader, we w