Key Account Manager - Wine Industry

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Commission structure

Wine education

Product allowances

Travel reimbursements

Industry exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Key Account Manager to lead relationships with high-value clients in Stellenbosch, including premium restaurants, boutique hotels, and wine retailers.

You will drive sales, ensure optimal product placement, and develop partnerships to grow market share, requiring wine knowledge and a strong client-facing sales background. Travel within the Western Cape is expected.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in sales, preferably wine, spirits or luxury goods.
• Proven track record managing key accounts and driving revenue.
• Strong knowledge of Stellenbosch wine market and products.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transport; travel within region.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of key accounts and nurture long-term relationships.
• Develop and execute sales strategies to achieve targets in Stellenbosch.
• Conduct wine tastings and product presentations for clients.
• Negotiate pricing, promotions and terms with stakeholders.
• Coordinate deliveries and monitor inventory at client premises.
• Identify new opportunities and expand the client base in premium segment.
• Collaborate with marketing to align sales with campaigns.
• Analyze sales and market trends to provide insights and recommendations.
• Ensure consistent brand representation and quality across client interactions.

Skills

Key account management

Sales experience

Wine knowledge

Negotiation skills

Communication

Education

Marketing/Sales related degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious winery renowned for its exceptional quality wines, is seeking a dedicated and relationship-focused Key Account Manager to represent their brand in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape area. This crucial role involves managing and nurturing relationships with high-value clients, including premium restaurants, boutique hotels, and specialized wine retailers. You will be responsible for driving sales, ensuring excellent product placement, and developing strategic partnerships to enhance brand visibility and market share. The ideal candidate possesses a deep passion for wine, extensive knowledge of the wine industry, and a proven ability to excel in a client-facing sales capacity. This position requires a strong presence within the local hospitality and retail sectors, focusing on direct client engagement and market development.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of key accounts, fostering strong, long-term relationships with clients.
• Develop and execute sales strategies to achieve and exceed wine sales targets within the assigned territory.
• Conduct wine tastings and product presentations for clients to showcase the winery's offerings.
• Negotiate pricing, promotions, and placement terms with key stakeholders.
• Monitor inventory levels at client premises and coordinate timely deliveries.
• Identify new business opportunities and expand the client base within the premium segment.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to align sales efforts with brand strategies and promotional campaigns.
• Analyze sales performance and market trends to provide insights and recommendations.
• Ensure consistent brand representation and adherence to quality standards across all client interactions.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in sales, preferably within the wine, spirits, or luxury goods industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing key accounts and driving revenue growth.
• Extensive knowledge of wine varietals, production, and the wine market, particularly within the Stellenbosch region.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to build and maintain strong professional relationships with diverse clientele.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation.
• Willingness to travel regularly within the assigned region and attend industry events.
• Tertiary qualification in Marketing, Sales, or a related field is advantageous.
• A passion for wine and a commitment to representing a premium brand.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives and bonuses.
• Generous commission structure tied to sales performance.
• Opportunities for wine education and professional development.
• Product allowances and tasting opportunities.
• Travel expenses reimbursement.
• Exposure to the premium wine industry and key players.