Open to opportunities

Christophe Pans

@christophepans

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Senior executive in business development and exports in agribusiness.

Chile

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that allows me to leverage my extensive experience in business development and exports, ideally in a dynamic and growth-oriented company that values innovation and strategic partnerships.

I am a senior executive specializing in business development and exports, particularly within the agribusiness sector. With extensive experience at leading companies like Viña Santa Ema and Cremaschi Furlotti, I have a proven track record in commercial expansion and market opening. My expertise lies in negotiating with global distributors and retailers, ensuring that brands achieve their maximum potential in competitive markets.

Throughout my career, I have been recognized for my efficient execution approach and process optimization. I have successfully developed automated ERP systems and QR-based marketing platforms that connect producers directly with consumers. My efforts have consistently resulted in profitable and sustainable growth, exemplified by increasing U.S. sales by 99% at Santa Ema Winery and achieving a 400% increase in bottled wine sales at Cremaschi Barriga Winery.

Fluent in multiple languages, I thrive in multicultural environments and have a passion for leading teams towards success. I am committed to fostering strategic alliances and exploring new markets, as demonstrated by my experience in opening markets across Africa and consolidating brands in over 30 countries.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Export Manager - North America

Santa Ema Winery

Sep 2023 - Jan 2025 (1 year 4 months)

Increased U.S. sales by 99%, making it the most important market in the region (80% of regional revenue). Led negotiations with key buyers such as Costco, ShopRite, and Bottle King, ensuring greater retail presence. Organized over 10 training events and tastings, improving brand perception and generating direct sales.

Sales Growth Negotiation Strategic Planning Market Analysis Training Tastings

Export Manager - USA, Europe, Africa

Cremaschi Barriga Winery S.A.

Feb 2014 - Jun 2023 (9 years 4 months)

Negotiated and closed a 12 SKU business with the 500-store Dutch supermarket chain Coop/PLUS. Increased U.S. bottled wine sales by 400%, reaching 1.3M liters annually, and signed a national contract with Walmart USA. Implemented a new sales channel (flexitanks), generating USD 985,000 in annual revenue.

International Sales Contract Negotiation

Export Director - Global

Vina Marty SPA

May 2009 - Jan 2014 (4 years 8 months)

Grew sales from USD 0 to USD 1M in 4 years and built strategic alliances with Carrefour (Belgium). Developed markets across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Designed an Excel-based ERP system that automated the generation of production, purchasing, and shipping documents.

Strategic Alliances Market Development ERP Systems Process Automation Document Management Europe Market

Global Export Manager

Errazuriz Ovalle Vineyards

Aug 2007 - Apr 2009 (1 year 8 months)

Managed a USD 13M portfolio and increased margins in China by 40% by establishing a direct channel. Opened new markets such as the Czech Republic and Ghana.

Portfolio Management Export Strategy Emerging Markets

Founder, CEO

Pansfruit Company

Apr 2005 - Jul 2007 (2 years 3 months)

Founded and led a fresh fruit export company, generating USD 1.5M in revenue in 2 years. Closed logistics contracts with shipping companies, optimizing income by USD 2,000 per container. Built sales networks in Japan, South Korea, Belgium, and the U.S.

Revenue Logistics Contract Negotiation Fresh Fruit Export

General Manager, Fresh Fruit Division

DPO International

Jun 1997 - Present (28 years)

Founded the Chilean office as global director of the division, managing the entire supply chain. Positioned the company as a key supplier of grapes in South Korea and lemons in Japan. Led an Asian sales team and generated USD 2.5M in sales.

General Management Division Leadership Supply Chain Management Positioning Team Leadership International Sales Fresh Fruit

Country Manager

Baines / Vandijk / Vema

Jan 1996 - Present (29 years 5 months)

Upon arriving in Chile, secured an annual contract with three Belgian companies, fostering successful business relationships. Conducted key market analysis for their continued success.

Business Relationship Management Market Analysis Belgian Market Chilean Market

Country Manager

Danone

Mar 1995 - Present (30 years 3 months)

During the Yugoslavian war, successfully introduced Nutricia powdered milk from Danone, overcoming the embargo. Created a lasting business relationship with KIBID.

Crisis Management Business Development Relationship Building Embargo Navigation

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Antwerp

Bachelor's Degree, Applied Economics, International Sales

Completed a Bachelor's Degree in Applied Economics with a major in International Sales. The program provided a strong foundation in economic principles and global market strategies.

Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET)

Certification, Wine and Spirits

Grade: 88% with distinction

Achieved WSET II certification with distinction, demonstrating advanced knowledge in wines and spirits. This certification enhanced expertise in the wine industry.