Vendor Acquisition Officer

Job Summary

The Vendor Acquisition Officer (VAO) will play a critical role in expanding the vendor network for Splitmulti Marketplace by actively sourcing, onboarding, and managing vendors from predefined local markets. This is a field-based, direct sales role requiring hands-on engagement with vendors in target markets to ensure they are successfully onboarded to the platform. The ideal candidate will be a motivated self-starter, able to work independently in the field while maintaining relationships with vendors to ensure Splitmulti has a diverse and competitive product offering.

Pre-determined Markets

•  Oke-Aarin
• Idumota
• Alaba Int'l Market
• Trade Fair/Aspanda Market

Proximity to the markets will be an advantage, as this is a field-based role.

Job Responsibilities

Vendor Sourcing & Acquisition

• Engage directly with vendors in the allocated markets, introducing them to the Splitmulti marketplace and securing their participation.
• Identify and acquire new vendors to increase the variety and volume of products on the e-commerce platform.
• Conduct market research to spot trends, emerging brands, and high-demand product categories that align with marketplace goals.
• Drive sales efforts to onboard vendors, providing clear communication about the benefits of joining Splitmulti.

Vendor Onboarding

• Guide vendors through the registration process, ensuring they understand how to list products and comply with platform policies.
• Work with internal teams to ensure vendors are properly set up in the system, including product catalog reviews for accuracy.
•  Ensure vendors are prepared to succeed on the platform by educating them about the tools and support available.

Direct Sales and Vendor Relationship Management

• Serve as the main point of contact for vendors within the assigned market, addressing any queries related to the onboarding process.
• Build long-term relationships with vendors to foster loyalty and repeat business.
•  Provide ongoing support, guiding vendors through platform features, sales analytics, and promotional opportunities to maximize their sales.
• Manage vendor performance by monitoring sales, product quality, and satisfaction levels, and making recommendations for improvement.

Field Work & Market Engagement

• Spend significant time in the field, physically visiting vendors at their market locations.
• Conduct live product assessments and negotiations with vendors on-site.
• Gather real-time feedback from vendors about their needs, market conditions, and competitive pressures.

Product Performance & Analytics

• Track the performance of vendor products to ensure they meet sales and quality standards
• Provide vendors with actionable insights to improve their product offerings and sales performance.
• Recommend promotional strategies or adjustments to product listings based on analytics, competitor activity, and market trends.

Performance Metrics

•  Number of vendors successfully onboarded and listed within a specified timeframe.
• Increase in sales and product diversity from acquired vendors.
• Vendor retention and ongoing engagement with the platform.
• Timely resolution of vendor queries and issues.
• Growth of Splitmulti’s product offerings, leading to increased sales volume.
• Achievement of direct sales targets related to vendor acquisition.

Qualifications

•  2-4 years of experience in field and direct sales, vendor acquisition, or business development, ideally in an e-commerce or retail setting.
• Strong understanding of sales techniques, particularly in face-to-face, field-based sales.
• Familiarity with e-commerce platforms and vendor onboarding processes.
• Proven track record of successfully onboarding and managing vendors in a direct sales role.
•  Proximity to the markets will be an advantage, as this is a field-based role.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence vendors effectively.