Commercial Director – Middle East & Africa

About the role

The Commercial Director for the Middle East and Africa will lead the Personal Care and Consumer Tissue business across the region, driving sales, growth and profitability in line with Essity’s strategic objectives. Reporting directly to regional leadership, you will shape commercial strategy, manage a full P&L and build strong partnerships with distributors and key customers.

Key responsibilities

• Own full P&L responsibility for the MEA Personal Care and Consumer Tissue portfolio.
• Develop and execute regional commercial strategies, adapting approaches to diverse market dynamics.
• Maintain and expand relationships with distributors, strategic partners and key customers.
• Lead commercial negotiations, contract management and business planning within delegated authority.
• Conduct regular market visits and executive‑level relationship management across Middle Eastern and African markets.
• Oversee bottom‑up sales forecasting, ensuring alignment with annual budgets and financial targets.
• Design and implement long‑term pricing strategies to sustain profitability and competitive positioning.
• Foster cross‑functional collaboration to ensure coordinated execution across the region.

Required profile

• Proven senior commercial leadership experience with full P&L accountability.
• Deep understanding of consumer goods markets in the Middle East and Africa.
• Strong track record of building and managing distributor networks.
• Excellent cultural awareness, negotiation and relationship‑building skills.
• Ability to respond quickly to market changes, currency fluctuations and regulatory developments.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and financial acumen.

Required skills