An account executive in FMCG is a support role and a stepping stone towards strategic key account management or category management.

This is often an analytical role assisting the key account manager and marketing team to identify and capitalise on opportunities and report on the performance of their brands against competitors in the market place.

What qualifications do I need?

Account executives tend to be degree qualified with a relevant business major and/or have two to three years' demonstrable sales experience in a similar environment. Accounting and finance exposure is also often beneficial in a competitive market.

Key attributes

Key personal attributes for an account executive include:

• Relationship building skills - both internal and with customers
• Ability to work autonomously
• Strong Microsoft Office skills - especially Excel
• Competitive nature
• Strong reporting skills
• Ability to present confidently to senior management
• Attention to detail
• Strong time management and ability to prioritise

Magic CV words

Strategic, entrepreneurial, goal-oriented, tenacious, persistent, innovative, confident present

Salaries

Account executives can expect to earn between $50-65k+ base salary. View Robert Walters Global Salary Survey for further details.

Account executive career prospects

Strong account executives can progress to the following roles within FMCG:

• Key account management
• Category management
• Trade marketing

If you're interested in a career as an account manager then get in touch with one of our expert consultants or check out our latest account management jobs.