Sales Manager – Food Ingredients & Industrial Bakery

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and drive the performance of the Gauteng field sales team, setting clear targets and maintaining a strong focus on new business.
• Personally identify, pursue and secure new customers, leading from the front in the field.
• Grow revenue, sales volumes and gross profit while protecting margins.
• Develop and manage key accounts across industrial food manufacturing, commercial bakeries, foodservice and wholesale.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts and trading terms to secure profitable business.
• Drive territory coverage, customer call cycles, pipeline development and sales activity.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity and emerging business opportunities.
• Track sales performance, prepare forecasts and report on regional results.
• Work closely with procurement, customer service and logistics to ensure reliable supply and excellent customer service.

Required profile

• Matric; a qualification in Sales, Marketing or Business Management would be advantageous.
• 8–10 years' sales experience within food ingredients or a relevant FMCG environment, including at least 3 years in sales management or team leadership.
• Proven experience selling food ingredients directly to industrial food manufacturers and/or commercial bakeries.
• A strong track record of winning new business and growing existing accounts.
• Sound understanding of the Gauteng industrial food manufacturing and bakery market.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a sales team while maintaining personal involvement in new business development.
• Strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills and the ability to build lasting customer relationships.
• Excellent planning, communication and reporting skills.
• Computer literacy, with CRM experience advantageous.
• A valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel extensively throughout Gauteng.

What we offer

• Negotiable, market-related remuneration based on experience.
• Vehicle or travel allowance.
• Cellphone allowance, incentives and commission.
• Medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• The opportunity to take ownership of a regional sales operation within a growing national business.