Job Title: Cluster Manager
Location: Six locations across India – Mumbai, Lucknow, Delhi/Chandigarh, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai/Bangalore
Department: Sales & Marketing – Eni Retail - Lubricants
Reports To: Head – Retail – Automotive Lubricants
The Cluster Manager will play a pivotal role in appointing and expanding new distributors across key geographies. Working closely with Zonal Managers and State Heads, this role involves mapping territories to identify gaps in the distribution network and addressing them effectively. The incumbent will also evaluate the existing distributor base using the 3I framework, replacing underperforming partners with new, qualified prospects. Success in this position requires a deep understanding of the regional markets, strong trade relationships, and proven leadership in the automotive replacement sector.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identify and map critical geographies within the assigned territory for network expansion.
- Develop and implement appropriate distribution strategies, including segment-wise or exclusive distribution models.
- Identify, appoint, and onboard primary distributors to build a robust network.
- Support and guide distributors to accelerate growth through aggressive market penetration initiatives.
- After stabilization, transition distributors to the existing sales operations team for ongoing management.
- Explore opportunities for allied product distribution such as batteries, tyres & tubes, and vehicle care products.
- Collaborate with the sales operations team in non-critical areas to identify and appoint suitable primary networks.
- Ensure adherence to sales and distribution policies in coordination with the distributor network.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, preferably Mechanical.
- 10 to 15 years of proven experience in automotive aftermarket distribution within the designated geographies.
- Demonstrated ability to appoint and scale primary distributor networks effectively.
- Strong, well-established relationships within the assigned territories.
Preferred Qualifications and Skills:
- MBA or PGDBM in Marketing or Business Management is an advantage.
- Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
- In-depth knowledge of distribution channels and route-to-market strategies.
- Technical understanding of lubricating oils and related automotive products.
- Strategic thinker with a strong orientation towards building and leveraging networks.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- High energy, self-driven, and willing to undertake extensive travel as required.
This role demands a results-oriented leader who can drive rapid network expansion while maintaining strong operational discipline. The successful candidate will be instrumental in strengthening the company’s footprint in the automotive lubricants aftermarket across multiple key regions in India.