Commercial Manager – Fruit Licensing

About the role

The Commercial Manager will drive Sun World’s licensing initiatives for grapes, citrus and subtropical varieties across South Africa and the broader SADC region. Working onsite and in the field, you will act as the primary link between the licensing team, growers, nurseries and distribution partners to ensure successful adoption of proprietary fruit varieties.

Key responsibilities

• Implement and advance Sun World’s variety distribution model throughout South African production regions and SADC sales territories.
• Administer proprietary licensing agreements with producers, nurseries, distributors and marketers.
• Develop new business opportunities and expand profitable relationships with producers and distributors.
• Coordinate plant material orders and support the importation and quarantine of new proprietary varieties.
• Prepare reports, track revenue and expenses, and support financial operations for the territory.
• Conduct periodic field visits, audits and nursery inspections, monitoring climate and grower concerns.
• Prepare presentations, coordinate field days and represent Sun World at industry events.
• Collect feedback, report on variety performance and licensee preferences, and support the technical team.

Required profile

• Hands‑on, commercially focused professional comfortable with field‑based work.
• Strong ability to manage licensing agreements and develop business relationships.
• Excellent organizational skills for coordinating orders, reporting and financial tracking.
• Willingness to travel frequently for field visits, audits and industry events.

Required skills