Key Accounts Sales Manager

About the role

A rapidly growing South African FMCG distributor specialising in nicotine and vaping products is seeking a commercially driven Key Accounts Sales Manager. Reporting to the National Sales Manager, you will own relationships with major national retailers and forecourt networks, driving revenue growth and ensuring on‑shelf availability.

Key responsibilities

• Manage relationships with assigned national buyers, category managers and store‑operations teams, acting as the primary escalation point for queries, claims and credit‑note resolution.
• Conduct scheduled buyer visits and business reviews, negotiate trading terms, listings and promotional support, and monitor sell‑through to prevent delisting risks.
• Prepare accurate weekly and monthly invoice schedules, reconcile statements, and chase overdue payments, escalating accounts over 90 days to Finance.
• Provide weekly account reports, contribute to monthly forecasts, and support field sales representatives with account‑level guidance.

Required profile

• Relevant BCom, National Diploma in Sales, Marketing or Business, or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum three years’ key‑account or national‑account sales experience with major South African retail chains (e.g., Pick n Pay, SPAR, OK Foods, Makro).
• Strong FMCG retail knowledge covering trading terms, drop‑shipments, promotional mechanics and planograms.
• Valid driver’s licence, own reliable vehicle and willingness to travel nationally.

Required skills

• Advanced Microsoft Excel (age‑analysis reports, invoice schedules, reconciliation spreadsheets).
• Experience with Sage Evolution or similar ERP systems for customer enquiries, invoice histories and credit notes.