Hybrid Area Sales Manager – Kwazulu-Natal

O'Brien Recruitment; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 500 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruiting firm is seeking a results-driven Hybrid Area Sales Manager in KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on driving sales growth in the FMCG sector, managing a sales team, and building relationships with key accounts. Candidates require a tertiary qualification in Sales or Marketing and at least 5 years of sales experience, with proven success in an operational management role. This position offers the opportunity for significant impact in a growing international company.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' sales experience, with at least 2 years in management.
• Proven track record in the FMCG industry.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver against volume, distribution, and market share targets.
• Lead, coach, and develop a sales team.
• Build and manage relationships with key accounts.

Skills

Sales experience

Negotiation skills

Customer relationship building

Analytical abilities

Commercial acumen

Education

Tertiary qualification in Sales or Marketing

Job description

The Opportunity

The OpportunityWe 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 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.