Area Manager

SOLEVO; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chemical distribution company in Pietermaritzburg seeks an experienced Area Manager to ensure growth and sustainability in the agricultural sector. Responsibilities include implementing business strategies, providing technical support, and managing logistics. Candidates must possess agricultural qualifications and 3-5 years of related experience. This role offers competitive compensation and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Opportunities for professional growth

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

Qualifications

• 3 - 5 years of working experience in a similar role.
• Strong ability to develop and implement effective sales strategies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft applications is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies for business growth within the area.
• Provide technical advice to agents on the use of products.
• Manage logistics and supply chain arrangements for depots.

Skills

Sales strategy development

Team leadership

Customer relationship management

Market research

Technical advice provision

Education

National Diploma or Degree in Agriculture

Grade 12 (Matric)

Croplife or BASOS certificate

Tools

Microsoft applications

Job description

Join Solevo: Empowering Progress Across Africa

At Solevo, we connect communities and industries with the solutions they need to grow, thrive, and transform. From supporting agricultural self-sufficiency to driving industrial innovation, we are shaping the future of Africa’s life sciences and industrial sectors.

Who are we?

SOLEVO is a leading distributor of chemicals and inputs for specific industrial and agricultural segments in Africa. SOLEVO assists African farmers and industries succeed by providing them with a full range of fertilizers, seeds, crop protection products, and industrial chemicals with guaranteed quality and good value. With over 75 years at the forefront of economic growth and transformation across Africa, we deliver critical raw materials and expertise to the continent’s high-GDP contributing sectors. Rolfes Agri is part of Solevo Group.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking an experienced and talented Area Manager. This role is vital for ensuring the growth and sustainability of Rolfes Agri's market presence.

What do we expect from the candidate?

The candidate will join the Agricultural Products team. The objective of this role is to lead and support commercial activities within the assigned territory, ensuring the implementation of strategic sales plans and team management.

The key responsibilities :

1. Develop and implement strategies for business growth within the area.
2. Design and develop innovative products with the product development team.
3. Provide technical advice to agents on the use of products on various crops.
4. Help distributors develop solutions for crops.
5. Manage logistics and supply chain arrangements for depots regarding stock.
6. Manage forecasts within the area for each depot or sales agent.
7. Provide training on Rolfes Agri products or crops for study groups or distributors.
8. Manage and control consignment stock in depots to increase sales and reduce stock levels (in coordination with logistics department).
9. Visit all agents allocated to the area periodically (at least once every 1-2 months, depending on the number of agents).
10. Conduct demonstration trials and report on results.

If you possess…

Must-Have :

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Agricultural Qualification - National Diploma or Degree in Agriculture.
• Croplife or BASOS certificate. If not, must be obtained within a year.
• 3 - 5 years of working experience in a similar role.
• Computer literate in Microsoft applications.

Nice-to-Have :

• Develop and implement effective sales strategies to meet or exceed sales targets in the assigned area.
• Lead, train, and mentor a team of sales representatives. Monitor performance, provide guidance, and conduct regular evaluations.
• Conduct market research to identify trends, customer needs, and competition. Use this data to adjust sales tactics and product offerings.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, including farmers and retail partners.
• Develop and execute promotional campaigns and marketing initiatives to increase product awareness and demand.
• Monitor inventory levels, manage stock, and ensure product availability for customers.
• Prepare and present sales reports, including forecasts, market trends, and competitor analysis, to management.
• Identify new business opportunities, territories, and potential partnerships to extend market presence.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, quality standards, and industry best practices in the sales of farm inputs.

Why join Rolfes Agri (Solevo)?

• Join a young, dynamic team leading chemical distribution across Africa.
• Enjoy a collaborative, international, and agile work environment.
• Be part of a team where initiative and 'thinking outside the box' are valued.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.

Then, this job is for you!

How to join us?

If you’re excited about this position, submit your resume detailing your relevant experience and be part of our exciting journey.

What’s next?

If your profile matches our criteria, you will be contacted by our HR team for an initial interview.

Please note that we will keep your profile on file for future opportunities.