Irrigation Market Development Manager

Senwes Ltd.; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading supplier in Africa is seeking an Irrigation Market Development Manager based in Gauteng, South Africa. This strategic role involves developing and implementing a growth strategy for the irrigation sector, focusing on expanding market share and optimizing product portfolios. The successful candidate will have deep expertise in irrigation, commercial acumen, and proven leadership abilities to drive significant sales growth. The position also requires data-driven insights and innovation to strengthen the business's market position.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in the irrigation sector with a focus on growth strategy.
• Ability to evaluate market conditions and competition effectively.
• Strong negotiation and partnership skills with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a growth strategy for the irrigation sector.
• Monitor sales trends and implement corrective actions to meet targets.
• Lead and mentor the irrigation sales team, enhancing their capabilities.
• Use data to inform strategies and prepare reports for senior management.
• Identify and evaluate new technologies and process improvements within irrigation.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Irrigation sector expertise

Commercial acumen

Cross-functional team alignment

Job description

Agrinet, a wholesale supplier and distributor of a wide range of products that cater to the hardware retail, industrial and irrigation markets in Africa is looking for an Irrigation Market Development Manager to spearhead Agrinet's irrigation growth strategy, focusing on expanding market share, optimising product portfolios, and achieving sustainable profitability across South Africa and neighbouring markets.

The role requires a strategic leader with deep irrigation sector expertise, proven commercial acumen, and the ability to align cross‑functional teams to deliver measurable growth.

Market Development and Growth Strategy

Develop a comprehensive growth plan for the irrigation sector that aligns with Agrinet's broader commercial objectives.

Conduct in‑depth industry research to identify new opportunities in farming, horticulture, landscaping, and infrastructure projects.

Evaluate competitor performance and identify potential threats and gaps in the market to position Agrinet as a leading choice.

Define and implement pricing models that support profitability while remaining competitive.

Collaborate with internal teams to simplify and streamline the irrigation product range, ensuring it remains relevant to client requirements.

Maintain ongoing engagement with irrigation associations and professional bodies to keep Agrinet at the forefront of industry standards.

Sales and Revenue Achievement

Translate company revenue objectives into clear sales targets for the irrigation portfolio.

Build and maintain strong partnerships with distributors, retailers, and direct clients to secure continued sales growth.

Implement structured account management practices that ensure retention and expansion of key clients.

Monitor sales trends across all irrigation categories and implement corrective actions when targets are not met.

Lead negotiations with clients and partners to secure long‑term agreements that strengthen Agrinet's presence.

Collaborate with finance teams to ensure accurate forecasting and budget alignment.

Team Leadership and Capability Development

Provide clear leadership to the technical and specialist irrigation sales team by defining roles, responsibilities, and expectations.

Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching sessions, and mentorship to improve individual and team capability.

Identify training needs within the team and create structured learning opportunities that enhance technical expertise.

Design and deliver product training sessions to both internal staff and external clients to promote correct application of irrigation solutions.

Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation within the sales force.

Ensure succession planning by developing future leaders within the team.

Data‑Driven Insights and Reporting

Collect and analyse sales and client data to produce meaningful insights that inform strategy and execution.

Prepare comprehensive monthly and quarterly reports for senior management with actionable recommendations.

Use customer relationship management tools to monitor performance and identify opportunities for improved client engagement.

Benchmark Agrinet's irrigation performance against competitor activity to support decision‑making.

Monitor trends in input costs and currency impacts that affect profitability and adapt strategies accordingly.

Share insights with cross‑functional teams to enable data‑driven planning and prioritisation.

Innovation, Technology and Process Improvement

Identify and evaluate new irrigation technologies that can be added to the Agrinet portfolio to strengthen competitiveness.

Work with procurement and logistics teams to ensure efficient supply chain processes and reduce delays.

Implement best practice methods in irrigation sales management that improve productivity and client outcomes.

Lead product introduction projects by coordinating with suppliers, internal departments, and clients.

Develop initiatives that simplify sales processes and increase efficiency for both the sales team and distribution partners.

Recommend operational improvements that reduce cost while maintaining product and service quality.