International trade professions
The international trade industry is still flourishing, despite a decline during the pandemic period. The career opportunities offered in this sector are varied and can cover functions related to trade, marketing and logistics.
EM Normandie offers a range of specialisations in international business.
- Sales analyst
- Product manager
- International project manager
- International marketing consultant
- Export sales manager
- Area manager
Sales analyst
A sales analyst plays a key role in driving business growth by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting sales data.
Their primary goal is to identify trends, evaluate sales performance, and provide actionable insights that support decision-making.
They collaborate closely with sales, marketing, and finance teams to develop strategies that improve revenue.
Strong analytical skills, proficiency in data tools, and clear communication are essential to succeed in this role.
Sales Analysts contribute to optimizing pricing, forecasting sales, and understanding customer behavior, making them valuable assets in competitive markets.
Find out more about Jean-Philippe Tison, Market Director at Bolloré Logistics
Find out more about the job of sales analyst
Product manager
Product managers are responsible for launching and marketing products on international markets. Working with local sales teams, they adapt products or services to the specific characteristics of the country concerned, while preserving the brand's identity.
Reporting to the Marketing department, they manage the entire life cycle of international products, from market introduction to withdrawal, including any adaptations and improvements. This cross-functional role involves working with production, sales and R&D.
Their duties will be:
- Conducting market research to identify international opportunities.
- Developing and implementing product strategies tailored to local markets.
- Ensuring that products comply with local and international regulations.
- Training sales teams on product features and benefits.
Find out more about Clémence Assumel-Lurdin : Product Manager at Atlas For Men
Find out more about the job of product manager
International project manager
The International Project Manager is responsible for planning and implementing projects involving multicultural teams and international partners.
They are responsible for ensuring that projects are successful, on budget and on time. They must manage the resources made available to them, act as a bridge between the stakeholders and resolve any problems that may arise. They also ensure that the project complies with quality standards.
They have a wide range of skills and qualities. They thrive in a multicultural and international environment. As a true leader, you motivate the teams involved in the project.
Their tasks include:
- Defining the objectives, scope and deliverables of the project in collaboration with the stakeholders.
- Coordinating the project's activities in the various geographical areas.
- Managing the international teams and ensure that tasks are completed.
- Identifying, assessing and managing project risks.
International marketing consultant
International marketing consultants support companies in their international development strategy. They help them to penetrate foreign markets and adapt their marketing strategies to local conditions.
Thess professionals have expertise in positioning products or departments on a global scale. They begin by analysing target markets before developing a marketing and communications plan.
They work with the sales and marketing teams to ensure that the recommendations are understood and correctly implemented.
Their tasks include:
- Conducting market research to identify opportunities and challenges in international markets.
- Developing marketing mix strategies for target markets.
- Planning and supervising the implementation of promotional campaigns.
- Analysing market developments and consumer trends.
Find out more about the job of International marketing consultant
Export sales manager
Sales Directors define international sales strategies, manage sales teams and develop relationships with international partners. They play a key role in the development of their company on a global scale.
They manage import and export operations, ensuring that products cross borders in compliance with local and international regulations. On the logistics side, they work with carriers and logistics partners.
On the development side, they work closely with the sales, marketing and production teams, as well as with local distributors and partners.
Their tasks are to:
- Developing and implementing the company's international sales strategy.
- Manage and develop the international sales teams.
- Negotiating contracts with distributors, agents and customers.
- Monitoring sales and making the necessary adjustments to meet targets.
Area manager
Area Managers supervise commercial activities in a specific geographical region. They set objectives, develop strategies and ensure coordination between the various countries in the zone.
This strategic position requires a strong results orientation, as they define the sales targets for their zone. Area Managers must manage both sales operations and teams. They must take account of the cultural, economic and regulatory differences between the various markets.
They must manage the resources at their disposal effectively, supervise budgets and analyse sales performance.
Their main tasks are:
- Developing and implementing sales strategies in line with the company's objectives.
- Managing the sales and marketing teams in their area.
- Managing relations with key customers, partners and distributors.
- Ensuring that sales operations comply with local regulations and company policies.
Discover the career path of Anne Kocher, Regional Product Manager - Renault
