Overview
Job Purpose
An Export Division of a well-established concern seeks an experienced and dynamic External Sales Consultant to drive growth across Sub-Saharan Africa. The successful candidate will be a proactive, results-oriented professional with proven expertise in the steel industry, strong customer relationship management skills, and extensive experience in cross-border sales and travel within Africa. This role requires a self-starter who is equally effective in independent and team settings, with the ability to manage export processes, expand market share, and support internal business operations. Must be willing and able to travel extensively within Sub-Saharan Africa.
Requirements
- Grade 12
- Post-school qualification in Sales, Business Management, or related field (Minimum NQF 5)
Experience
- Minimum 5 years in external sales
- Demonstrable knowledge of the steel industry and proven experience in Sub-Saharan Africa export markets
- Strong track record of business development and customer relationship management in Africa
- Knowledge of the steel industry and established relationships with steel customers will be a distinct added advantage
Technical Skills and Competencies
- Proficient in MS Office and PowerPoint
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
- Strong analytical, negotiation and communication skills
- Excellent time management and organization ability
- Knowledge of Sage ERP adv.
Key Responsibilities
- Travel extensively throughout Sub-Saharan Africa to maintain strong relationships with existing customers while actively prospecting for new business opportunities.
- Conduct customer visits, presentations, and negotiations to build sustainable partnerships and drive sales growth.
- Monitor competitor activities and provide feedback on market trends to inform strategy.
- Track customer and product performance, analysing data to improve sales strategies and identify growth opportunities.
- Prepare and deliver professional presentations (PowerPoint) to customers and internal stakeholders.
- Support the internal sales team with quotations, order processing, and timely follow-up to ensure customer satisfaction.
- Oversee compliance with export documentation and cross-border regulations.
- Liaise with the manufacturing and logistics teams to monitor order progress and ensure accurate, timely deliveries.
- Ensure customers receive clear and regular communication on order status.
- Prepare call plans, visit schedules, and submit detailed call reports for management review.
- Contribute to sales meetings, providing insights from customer interactions and Sub-Saharan market developments.
- Support budgeting processes through analysis of customer feedback, pricing strategies, and regional market dynamics.
- Participate in stock takes and operational activities where required.