Export Sales Manager

Smith+Nephew; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading medical devices company is seeking an Export Manager in Johannesburg to enhance distributor performance and drive strategic growth across global markets. The role involves leading the international distributor network, setting KPIs, and collaborating on product launches. Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree, 5–8 years' experience in a similar role, and a strong understanding of international trade and logistics, along with excellent communication and negotiation skills. This position offers a hybrid working model and various benefits.

Benefits

Flexible Vacation and Time Off

Medical Aid

Employee Wellness Programme

Hybrid Working Model

Hands-On Training

Qualifications

• 5–8 years’ experience in a similar role, preferably in medical devices.
• Strong understanding of international trade and logistics.
• Willingness to travel up to 50%.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimise the international distributor network.
• Define and monitor KPIs for distributor partners.
• Ensure compliance in export processes.
• Develop onboarding and training programs.
• Collaborate on product launches within distributor channels.

Skills

KPI monitoring

Communication

Negotiation

Analytical

Organizational

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field

Job description

Life Unlimited.

At Smith+Neb, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. We believe that through innovation, development and supporting our customers and partners, we help people live Life Unlimited. With products available in over 100 countries, we rely on our talented teams to ensure our global success.

What will you be doing?

As an Export Manager, you will lead and optimise our international distributor network, driving strategic growth and operational excellence across global markets. You will play a pivotal role in enhancing distributor performance, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that our international operations deliver measurable business impact.

What will you need to be successful?

• Define and monitor KPIs for distributor partners, including sales targets, market share growth, and compliance metrics.
• Ensure timely, compliant export processes in coordination with logistics providers and distributors.
• Develop onboarding programs and training to accelerate distributor readiness.
• Identify underperforming territories and recommend new market entry strategies.
• Collaborate on product launches and campaigns within distributor channels.
• Serve as the primary contact between distributors and internal stakeholders, ensuring alignment and issue resolution.

Successful candidates would need the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Business, or related field.
• 5–8 years’ experience in a similar role, preferably in medical devices.
• Strong understanding of international trade, logistics, and market dynamics.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Highly organised, analytical, and results-driven.
• Willingness to travel up to 50%.

You Unlimited.

165 years of pioneering innovation requires a relentless focus on what’s next. We are focused on you. You are what is next…

Benefits

• Inclusion + Belonging – Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving.
• Work/Life Balance: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours.
• Your Wellbeing: Medical Aid and an Employee Wellness Programme.
• Flexibility: Hybrid Working Model for most professional roles.
• Training: Hands‑On, Team‑Customised, Mentorship.

Stay connected by joining our Talent Community. We’re more than just a company – we’re a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day. Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You Unlimited, life, culture, and benefits at S+N. Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.