Meet Amer - Territory Activation Executive
“The company goes out of its way to help you achieve your goals.”
Territory Activation Executive Amer says it’s a very rewarding role. Although he’s out in the field, he never feels alone, because there’s always someone there to help if he needs it.
What were you doing before you joined the Field Force?
I've been working in FMCG sales for most of my career. I started off selling chocolate, then moved on to healthy yoghurt, and did a bit of technology, but I've also been an event manager as well. So, I've got a lot of experience of working with the public and retailers.
What does your working day usually look like?
A typical day mostly involves planning visits to retailers to inspire them to stock our portfolio of smoke-free products. As a Territory Activation Executive, I work as a team with the store owners and their staff, training them on the products and who they’re aimed at. So, you have to be able to motivate and encourage them. Every day’s completely different, because every customer's different and you're flexing your style to suit each one.
How does the company support you in your role?
There’s an outstanding toolkit and support network in the business, and the coaching and support you get from your line manager is second to none. So, you’re never alone - the company goes out of its way to help you achieve your goals.
What makes your role so enjoyable?
I love my job – it's perfect for me. I've got the freedom to develop my own area, using my skills and personality. Yet I've also got the support of my team and the company when I need it. If you work hard and you're successful, you're rewarded and recognised as well.
Meet Pamela –Territory Activation Executive
“We all work as a team, and everyone brings something different to the table.”
Pamela believes that being a people person, with good customer skills and being able to plan ahead is essential.
What does the vision of a smoke-free future mean to you?
I was already part of Field Force when Philip Morris International (PMI) announced its vision of a smoke-free future. So I've been really involved with growing sales of our smoke-free products. It's more than just selling products. It’s about working with the retailers, and giving them the information so they can really help the consumers make the right choices.
What does a typical day involve for you?
No two days are ever the same. I get my priorities and KPIs at the beginning of the month, and I match them to what the stores need. So I might prioritise retailers who need more support on the products or to help drive their sales up. On average, I do between eight and fifteen visits a day. That involves training and motivating retailers and prioritising their needs.
What skills are important for someone in a Field Force role?
You definitely need to be a people person, with good customer skills and a very flexible style. Being able to plan is essential. We all work as a team, and everyone brings something different to the table. As one of the most experienced people in the team, I’ve never felt different. Everyone's accepted.
How important is a work/life balance at Philip Morris Limited?
We have targets and KPIs, but work-life balance is very important too. The company doesn't expect you to be out in the field 24/7. They take the attitude that if you’re balanced and refreshed at home, it gives you better results when you’re at work.
What do you like most about working in a field sales team?
Whether you've been in field sales for years, have only just started, or you’re a graduate, we all learn from each other. In the team, we all share knowledge and support each other. We’re stronger together – it's not just about the biggest wins, it's about being there to help people.