Discover the Role of a Sales Manager in Cosmetics and Fragrances
Often confused with the Product Manager, the Sales Manager has a distinct set of responsibilities. That said, in smaller companies, it’s common for one person to wear multiple hats — acting as perfumer, product manager, and sales manager, overseeing both the creation and commercialization of a product.
In larger companies, however, all these professionals often work closely together to ensure a product’s success, whether in the perfume or cosmetics industry.
Here’s everything you need to know about the role of a Sales Manager in Cosmetics and Fragrances.
Job Description – Sales Manager in Cosmetics and Fragrances
In luxury brands, you’ll typically find a perfumer, sometimes working with a nose, to create the fragrance or cosmetic formula. A product manager then acts as a bridge between the creators and the consumers. Once the product is ready to hit the market, sales teams take over.
That’s where the Sales Manager comes in. In charge of the company’s sales strategy, this professional has a global vision of the full range of products under their responsibility — often broader than that of individual product managers.
A skilled leader, the Sales Manager organizes regular team meetings to ensure that sales figures for their sector continue to grow.
They may also lead negotiations and motivate the sales team through coaching and performance initiatives.
Naturally, to succeed in this role, they must have in-depth knowledge of the cosmetics and fragrance industry.
Salary of a Sales Manager – Cosmetics and Fragrances
Whether called Sales Manager or Commercial Manager, the role is essentially the same.
A junior Sales Manager earns between €25,000 and €30,000 gross per year, while a senior Sales Manager can earn up to €50,000 gross per year.
The salary varies based on experience and level of responsibility.
Key Skills for a Sales Manager – Cosmetics and Fragrances
As a team leader, a Sales Manager must feel comfortable leading meetings and managing a team.
This requires strong management skills, including empathy and supportive leadership, as well as the ability to energize and motivate others. A sharp analytical mind and ease with numbers are also essential to assess commercial performance and identify opportunities for growth.
Marketing skills are also important, particularly in commercial strategy.
This is a role that demands confidence, the ability to make difficult decisions, and strong stress resilience.
How to Become a Sales Manager – Cosmetics and Fragrances
To become a Sales Manager, you’ll need a degree in commercial management. Attending a business school is highly recommended, as it also helps build a strong professional network.
However, if you’re interested in specializing in the fragrance and cosmetics industry, we offer tailored training programs.
You can choose between:
– The 5-year “Creation & Management” program at our Paris campus
– The 5-year “Valorization & Commercialization of Plants, Perfumes & Flavors” program at our Grasse campus
If you already hold a Bachelor’s in business management and want to specialize through a Master’s degree, our Master’s in Chemistry and Life Sciences – FESAPCA (Formulation, Sensory Evaluation and Analysis for the Perfume, Cosmetics, and Food Flavoring Industries) will give you strong scientific expertise to become a specialist in the field.
Feel free to contact us with any questions — we’d be happy to help you find the training path best suited to your career goals.