Commercial Manager (Beverages)

University of Fort Hare; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

A beverage start-up based in Somerset West is seeking a Commercial Manager. This role involves developing sales strategies, managing key accounts, and driving business growth in the juice industry. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and proven experience in sales and marketing within the beverage sector. Strong leadership and negotiation skills are essential. Join us to shape the future of our beverage offerings.

Qualifications

• Proven success in sales and marketing roles within the beverage and FMCG sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of the juice industry, particularly Not-From-Concentrate (NFC) juice.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement national and international sales strategies to drive business growth.
• Acquire new customers and manage key accounts effectively.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure operational efficiency.

Skills

Sales strategies

Market research

Leadership

Negotiation skills

Sales performance management

Education

Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Marketing, Business Administration, Food Science, or related field

Job description

Overview

My client, a start-up based in Grabouw area, with offices in Somerset West, specialises in the development and manufacturing of cold-pressed fresh fruit juices. Due to their current expansion, they have a vacancy for a Commercial Manager. This position will be responsible for identifying and establishing new markets for their products (bulk and ready to drink juices), driving strategic growth, and building long-term customer relationships. This role requires a blend of market research, business development, sales and strategic planning expertise to create and execute a roadmap for market entry and expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
  • Develop and implement national and international sales strategies to drive business growth.
  • Align area marketing initiatives with national and international objectives to enhance customer engagement.
• Sales & Performance Management
  • Oversee pricing, promotions, and profitability to optimize sales operations.
  • Monitor sales performance, analyse trends, and adjust strategies accordingly.
  • Establish performance metrics and ensure achievement of company sales targets.
• Market & Business Development
  • Conduct market analysis to identify growth opportunities and target markets.
  • Launch new products and enhance existing offerings based on market needs.
  • Lead promotional campaigns and assess their impact on sales and brand equity.
• Team Future Development
  • Build sales and marketing team to exceed goals.
  • Recruit, onboard, and develop staff through coaching and performance reviews.
• Customer & Account Management
  • Acquire new customers and manage key accounts effectively.
  • Address and resolve customer issues promptly and professionally.
  • Recommend tailored products/services to meet client needs.
• Operational & Financial Oversight
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure operational efficiency.
  • Manage budgets, forecast financial targets, and plan for profitability.
  • Maintain customer financial records and oversee account adjustments.
  • Track and manage client equipment such as shop coolers to ensure it is suitable for our product.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Marketing, Business Administration, Food Science, Food Technology or a related field.
• Proven success in sales and marketing roles within the beverage and FMCG sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of the juice industry, particularly Not-From-Concentrate (NFC) juice.
• Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams.
• Experience in developing and executing sales and marketing strategies.
• Previous experience in a similar role will be advantageous.