Hybrid Area Sales Manager – KwaZulu-Natal

O'Brien Recruitment; KwaZulu-Natal; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a results-driven Hybrid Area Sales Manager to join the team in KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on driving sales growth, strengthening customer relationships, and ensuring successful execution across both on-trade and off-trade channels. Candidates should have at least 5 years of sales experience, including operational management, and a strong background in the FMCG industry. Flexibility for travel and after-hours customer engagement is necessary.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ sales experience with 2 years at operational management level.
• Proven track record in managing sales within the FMCG industry.
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver against volume, distribution, and market share targets.
• Analyze business and sales data to drive informed decision-making.
• Lead, coach, and develop a sales team.

Skills

Sales experience

Negotiation skills

Customer relationship management

Analytical abilities

Communication skills

Education

Tertiary qualification in Sales or Marketing

Job description

The Opportunity

We are seeking a results-driven Hybrid Area Sales Manager to join the South African team, based in KwaZulu-Natal. This role focuses on driving sales growth, strengthening customer relationships, and ensuring successful execution across both on-trade and off-trade channels in the region.

About the Company

Our client is a leading international player in the premium beverages industry, with a strong footprint across more than 190 markets worldwide. With a portfolio of renowned brands, the company continues to grow through innovation, premiumisation, and strong customer partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver against volume, distribution, and market share targets.
• Analyze business and sales data to drive informed decision-making.
• Lead, coach, and develop a sales team to achieve operational excellence.
• Influence key KPIs such as call adherence, strike rate, and promotional execution.
• Build and manage relationships with distributors, key accounts, and third-party partners.
• Negotiate trade agreements, pouring contracts, and ensure pricing adherence.
• Monitor competitor activity and develop effective counterstrategies.
• Manage budgets responsibly, ensuring compliance with audit requirements.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to maximize sales impact and customer satisfaction.

What We’re Looking For

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Sales or Marketing (minimum 3 years).
• 5+ years’ sales experience, with at least 2 years at an operational management level.
• Proven track record in managing sales within the FMCG industry.
• Strong commercial acumen, negotiation, and customer relationship skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and analytical abilities.
• Knowledge of brand building, channel management, and category positioning.

Additional Requirements

• South African citizenship or valid work permit.
• Ability to travel extensively within KZN.
• Flexibility to engage with customers after hours and on weekends when required.