Head of Sales – Projects

Akilconnect; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Akilconnect in South Africa seeks a senior channel leader to direct and control the work and resources of the channel, recruit and retain skilled staff, and develop the annual channel business plan to meet objectives. The role provides strategic guidance to senior management on industry developments and regulatory requirements.

You will establish links with major customers, government departments, and other stakeholders to exchange information, lead cost‑effective initiatives, manage budgets and

Qualifications

• Minimum academic qualification: Bachelor, Bachelor of Technology, Engineering or equivalent.
• Postgraduate qualification in Business Management is an advantage.
• General work experience: 20+ years.
• Specific to the position: 10 years with multiple branch oversight.
• Industry experience: Manufacturing, Industrial Sales.

Responsibilities

• Direct and control the work and resources of the channel to recruit and retain staff.
• Prepare the annual channel business plan and monitor progress for cost efficiency.
• Provide strategic advice to senior management on industry developments.
• Establish links with major customers and government bodies to exchange information.
• Direct and maintain a marketing and public‑relations strategy for the channel.
• Oversee annual budget preparation and monitor implementation to maximize revenue and cut costs.
• Manage working capital, credit, and debtor management processes.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety and statutory regulations.
• Oversee stock management, supplier relationships, and contract terms.
• Prepare the annual report and accounts and deliver monthly reports.

Education

Bachelor, Bachelor of Technology, Engineering or equivalent

Postgraduate qualification in Business Management is an advantage

Job description

Main Responsibilities

• Direct and control the work and resources of the channel, ensuring ongoing recruitment and retention of well‑motivated, trained, and developed staff to meet mission and objectives.
• Prepare the annual channel business plan and monitor progress to ensure objectives are achieved cost‑effectively and efficiently.
• Provide strategic advice and guidance to senior management on industry developments, and help develop policies that meet the channel’s mission, objectives, and statutory/regulatory requirements.
• Establish and maintain formal and informal links with major customers, government departments, local authorities, key decision‑makers and other stakeholders to exchange information and ensure appropriate range and quality of products and services.
• Direct and maintain programmes that keep the channel at the forefront of its sector, applying cost‑effective methods and approaches, and providing the required range and quality of products and services.
• Prepare, gain acceptance, and monitor implementation of the annual budget to meet targets, maximize revenue flows, and optimise costs.
• Manage working capital and ensure effective credit and debtor management processes are followed and compliant.
• Direct and maintain an effective marketing and public‑relations strategy to promote the channel’s products, services and image in the wider community.
• Represent the channel in negotiations with customers, suppliers, government departments and key contacts to secure effective contract terms.
• Direct and maintain total quality management systems throughout the channel to ensure the best possible products and services for customers and clients.
• Implement equal opportunities policies in all aspects of the channel.
• Oversee the preparation of the annual report and accounts and ensure approval, together with various monthly reports as required.
• Develop and direct implementation of policies and procedures to ensure compliance with health and safety and other statutory regulations.
• Manage stock by ensuring optimum stock levels, performing monthly stock takes, reporting variances, reviewing sales, and maintaining relationships with external suppliers to meet quality and price standards.
• Manage customer support by ensuring staff are fully trained, customers maintain division standards, maintaining regular contact, keeping customer details up‑to‑date on CRM, and providing training programmes for contractors, architects, and engineers.
• Manage equipment support and supply by maintaining peak performance and maintenance schedules, identifying subcontractors for repairs, and ensuring equipment contracts remain current.

Procurement Responsibilities

• Ensure adequate raw materials and steel trading stocks are maintained.
• Procure raw materials in accordance with the business plan and group guidelines.
• Keep equipment contracts up to date and manage procurement processes efficiently.

Qualifications

• Minimum academic qualification: Bachelor, Bachelor of Technology, Engineering or equivalent.
• Postgraduate qualification in Business Management is an advantage.
• General work experience: 20+ years.
• Specific to the position: 10 years with multiple branch oversight.
• Industry experience: Manufacturing, Industrial Sales.