Country Commercial Corridor Manager

Recruitment Matters; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Country Commercial Manager in South Africa. The role entails developing commercial strategies, managing financial forecasting, and leading a high-performing team. Ideal candidates will have a relevant degree and 8–10 years of experience in logistics or commercial environments, with strong leadership and negotiation skills.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years’ experience in a similar commercial or logistics environment.
• In-depth knowledge of the logistics and trade landscape within the DRC, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
• High ethical standards and confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement commercial strategies to drive revenue growth.
• Lead efforts to identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Conduct financial analysis and forecasting for profitability assessment.
• Identify potential risks and compliance challenges.
• Lead and motivate a high-performing commercial team.

Skills

Leadership

Conflict resolution

Negotiation

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or Business Administration

Job description

Overview

Our client is seeking a Country Commercial Manager.

Responsibilities

Strategic Execution

• Develop and implement commercial strategies aligned with the organization’s broader goals, focusing on driving revenue growth, profitability, and market share expansion.
• Conduct thorough market research and competitive analysis to identify emerging trends, customer demands, and industry dynamics to inform decision-making.
• Ensure company assets are deployed effectively, optimizing resource allocation and maximizing operational and financial outcomes.
• Actively support the execution of the overall business strategy through targeted commercial initiatives.

Business Development

• Lead efforts to identify and pursue new business opportunities to generate revenue and expand market presence.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, suppliers, and industry stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth.
• Oversee negotiations, drafting, and execution of commercial agreements, ensuring favorable terms and risk mitigation.
• Manage the full lifecycle of contracts, including compliance, performance evaluation, and renewals.
• Oversee client, supplier, and contractor onboarding in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Manage demurrage-related activities with key customers, ensuring accurate documentation, invoicing, and resolution of disputes where necessary.

Financial Analysis and Forecasting

• Conduct financial analysis and forecasting to assess profitability, transit times, and payment terms, identifying areas for improvement.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial metrics to track and enhance commercial performance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives based on data insights.

Risk Management and Compliance

• Identify potential risks and compliance challenges related to commercial activities and develop mitigation strategies.
• Ensure all commercial activities adhere to relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead and motivate a high-performing commercial team, providing mentorship and guidance.
• Foster a collaborative, results-driven culture that encourages innovation, accountability, and operational excellence.
• Promote professional growth through training and career development opportunities.

Operational & Stakeholder Management

• Develop strong collaboration mechanisms with Operations to align capacity management with commercial strategy.
• Work closely with other departments to ensure smooth execution of commercial activities and achievement of business goals.

Additional Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with existing and potential customers to generate new business opportunities.
• Conduct client meetings and provide detailed reports to management.
• Ensure accurate forecasting to meet capacity demands.
• Develop tailored logistics and transport solutions to meet client needs.
• Conduct regular market surveys and analyze competing corridors and rate structures.
• Identify new market opportunities and monitor competitive landscapes.
• Meet sales objectives through proactive pursuit of new business.
• Analyze data and prepare reports to meet revenue and profitability targets.
• Implement cost control measures and negotiate supplier rates to improve profitability.
• Review and analyze profit and loss statements, providing actionable insights and recommendations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or Business Administration (MBA advantageous).
• 8–10 years’ experience in a similar commercial or logistics environment.
• Strong leadership and people management abilities.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• In-depth knowledge of the logistics and trade landscape within the DRC, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
• Conflict resolution and negotiation skills.
• High ethical standards and confidentiality.