JOB DETAILS:

Background information about the job or company

On behalf of our client, a Cocoa Producing Company, we seek to recruit and interview for a Branch Manager to manage and oversee cocoa procurement operations for its Ntenjeru branch. This role involves leading cocoa buying activities across Kampala, Ntenjeru, Mayuge, Kagadi, and Mpondwe branches, ensuring high-quality standards, and increasing procurement volumes. The role also includes providing management support to branch managers, training and developing a trading assistant, and ensuring efficient processing and export operations. Travel to other branches is required,

Responsibilities or duties

Cocoa Procurement and Operations:

• Lead and coordinate cocoa procurement activities across Kampala, Ntenjeru, Mayuge, Kagadi, and Mpondwe branches, ensuring consistent supply and adherence to quality standards.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with cocoa farmers, agents, and suppliers while monitoring market trends to optimize procurement strategies.
• Support the Commercial Director and Bundibugyo branch manager to maximize efficient purchases from traders in Bundibugyo, Mpondwe and Kampala.
• Supervise and support branch field staff to align their performance with company objectives, conducting regular visits to evaluate operations and address challenges.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase volumes while maintaining quality and efficiency in cocoa buying and processing.
• Actively propose and implement cocoa related improvements and investments in Ntenjeru and other branches.
• Coordinate with the Ntenjeru branch manager to ensure timely and efficient movement of cocoa from upcountry branches to Ntenjeru branches.
• Coordinate with the export team to ensure the timely and efficient export of cocoa from Ntenjeru branch. Ensure compliance with export standards and regulatory requirements.
• Lead initiatives to speed up cocoa stock turnover, minimizing the days from point of purchase to shipment.
• Build and maintain simple and effective reports for the management of cocoa purchases and related operations.

Training, Development and Management Support:

• Provide a backup to the Ntenjeru branch manager.
• Identify, train and mentor a trading assistant to support cocoa procurement and related operations effectively. Provide guidance on market analysis, supplier engagement, and quality control to develop the assistant’s skills and knowledge.
• Provide training and support for the internship program.
• Provide operational and managerial support to branch managers to improve efficiency and performance. Collaborate with the Commercial Director to implement company strategies and policies across branches.
• Travel to other branches to provide support in operations, train staff, and strengthen procurement networks.
• Provide support to relevant associations on behalf of Esco (e.g. Vanex or CEAU).

Other:

• Other tasks as required.

Qualifications or requirements

Skills and Competencies

• Strong negotiation and commercial skills.
• Excellent understanding of cocoa markets and pricing mechanisms.
• Strong analytical and financial skills.
• Knowledge of commodity risk management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong relationship management abilities.
• High level of integrity and ethical conduct.
• Excellent planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Knowledge of ERP systems is an added advantage.
• Willingness to travel extensively to sourcing regions.

Experience needed

• Minimum of 3–5 years' experience in cocoa trading, commodity trading, agricultural procurement, or a similar role.
• Experience in international commodity markets is an added advantage.

Any other provided details

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Business Administration, Economics, Commerce, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Professional qualifications in commodity trading or procurement will be an added advantage.

Interested and qualifying candidates should submit their applications to the following address: https://forms.gle/3W6ZQkhHwcKqpi2h8