External Account Manager

Brenntag; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 450 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chemical distribution company in Johannesburg is seeking an External Account Manager to foster client relationships and drive business growth. Responsibilities include managing key accounts, boosting sales, and seeking new opportunities. Ideal candidates will have 5-8 years in sales, preferably in the chemical industry, strong negotiation skills, and a relevant tertiary qualification. You will thrive in a dynamic sales environment and be committed to exceeding targets.

Qualifications

• 5 to 8 years' experience in a Sales and Marketing function.
• Proven track record in sales and account management.
• Familiarity with chemical distribution and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of category ‘A & B’ customers.
• Identify and secure new business opportunities.
• Prepare thoroughly for customer visits and submit schedules.

Skills

Strong sales and negotiation skills

Excellent relationship-building and customer service abilities

Ability to identify, pursue, and close new business opportunities

Strong planning, organisational, and time-management skills

Effective communication and presentation abilities

Proficient in MS Office and CRM systems

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Education

Matric

Tertiary qualification in a commercial or science-related field

Tools

SAP

MS Office

CRM systems

Job description

Job Requisition: External Account Manager

Your Role

As an External Account Manager in Brenntag Essentials you will be responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with clients while acting as the lead point of contact for your assigned portfolio. You will manage existing business, broaden product ranges, and actively seek out new opportunities to grow the business.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of category ‘A & B’ customers.
• Maintain and grow existing business accounts.
• Broaden product range penetration at existing clients.
• Identify and secure new business opportunities.
• Achieve and exceed sales GP targets.
• Increase margins and profitability.
• Conduct customer profiling and maintain accurate records.
• Perform frequent follow-up visits and calls to clients (minimum 20 visits per week).
• Stay updated on product knowledge and sales trends by attending training and seminars.
• Submit weekly call reports and ensure accurate administration.
• Gather data for accurate forecasting and provide weekly updates to Product Managers.
• Ensure conditions of sale are always current and up to date.
• Prepare thoroughly for all customer visits and submit weekly schedules on time.
• Assist in selling short-dated stock where applicable.
• Maintain good housekeeping practices in your area of responsibility.
• Adhere to Brenntag’s Rules of Procedure (ROP), Standard Operating Procedures, and company policies at all times.

Your Profile

You are a self-motivated, results-driven professional with strong business acumen, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build long-term client relationships. You thrive in a dynamic sales environment, are confident in identifying opportunities, and are committed to meeting and exceeding targets.

Skills

• Strong sales and negotiation skills.
• Excellent relationship-building and customer service abilities.
• Ability to identify, pursue, and close new business opportunities.
• Strong planning, organisational, and time-management skills.
• Effective communication and presentation abilities.
• Proficient in MS Office and CRM systems.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Experience

• 5 to 8 years' experience in a Sales and Marketing function that includes managing complex and/or significant customer relationships and key accounts
• Proven track record in sales and account management, (Chemical commodities industry preferred, Cleaning, Construction, Agri, Food, Mining etc)
• Familiarity with chemical distribution and regulatory frameworks (e.g., Hazchem, National Road Traffic Act compliance) would be an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to manage key accounts and deliver on sales targets.
• Experience in customer profiling, forecasting, and reporting.
• Exposure to margin improvement and profitability strategies.
• Experience with CRM and MS Office
• SAP knowledge advantageous
• Valid driver’s licence and own vehicle

Education

• Matric
• Tertiary qualification in a commercial or science-related field i.e. Analytical Chemistry, Bcom Marketing, BSC
• Additional technical or industry-related training (chemicals) will be an asset.