Area Sales Manager (Agriculture)

University of Fort Hare; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Fort Hare is seeking an experienced Area Sales Manager to support the agricultural sector through advanced plant nutrition and product development. The successful candidate will manage and expand sales networks, ensuring technical support and strong client relationships.

The role requires a minimum of five years' agricultural sales experience, with strong agronomic knowledge and a proven track record in sales development. Frequent travel within South Africa is expected.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years' experience in agricultural sales.
• Strong agronomic knowledge and practical experience in crop production.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with agents and clients.
• Travel to support agents and promote business development.
• Develop new markets and business opportunities.
• Provide technical training and product presentations.
• Manage sales targets and strategies to ensure profitability.

Skills

Sales experience in agriculture

Client relationship management

Technical support delivery

Market expansion capabilities

Leadership and communication

Education

Relevant qualification in Agriculture

BASOS certification

Job description

My client is looking for a talented and driven Area Sales Manager to join their team. They serve the agricultural sector through advanced plant nutrition, product development, product formulation, manufacturing, and distribution.

Main Purpose of the Position

The Area Sales Manager is responsible for the management, development, and expansion of the company's sales and distribution network within the assigned territories. The position requires the delivery of technical support, the development of strong client relationships, the identification of new business opportunities, and the implementation of sales and marketing strategies to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.

Qualifications & Experience:

• A relevant qualification in Agriculture or a related field. BASOS certification will be advantageous.
• Minimum of five (5) years' experience in agricultural sales, with a proven track record of consistently achieving or exceeding sales targets.
• Demonstrated experience in managing and developing agents, distributors, and sales representatives.
• Sound knowledge of planning, implementing, and evaluating product trials, including the interpretation of trial results.
• Strong agronomic knowledge and practical experience in crop production, with particular expertise in permanent crops such as citrus.
• Proven marketing, business development, and market expansion capabilities.
• Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively throughout South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Agent and Client Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with agents, distributors, and clients through regular visits, technical support, and excellent service.
• Travel and Regional Support: Travel to support agents, distributors, and clients, and promote business development within designated regions.
• Sales Development and Business Expansion: Develop new markets, clients, and business opportunities to ensure sustainable growth.
• Training and Technical Presentations: Provide technical training and product presentations to agents, distributors, and producers.
• Exhibitions and Marketing Events: Organize and support industry events to promote brand awareness.
• Trial Management: Plan, manage, and evaluate product trials, ensuring that results and recommendations are accurately documented.
• Direct Sales: Generate, manage, and follow up on sales opportunities to maximize sales.
• Sales Management and Performance: Manage sales targets, budgets, and strategies to ensure profitability and growth.
• Market Research and Industry Development: Identify new market opportunities, products, and technologies through ongoing market and industry analysis.
• Teamwork and Reporting: Collaborate with the team and provide regular feedback on sales performance, market developments, and client activities.