Key Account Manager - Wine & Spirits Industry

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Wine tastings and events

Staff discounts on premium products

Travel allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly motivated Key Account Manager for Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will manage a portfolio of premium wine and spirits accounts, focusing on hospitality and retail sectors, and drive sales growth through tailored solutions.

You will develop strategic account plans, nurture relationships with decision-makers, and lead negotiations to secure favorable terms, while aligning with marketing and supply chain for successful launches.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in key account management in wine/spirit luxury goods.
• Strong knowledge of the Western Cape wine and spirits market.
• CRM proficiency and sales analytics experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic account plans to meet sales targets.
• Build long-term relationships with hotels, restaurants, and retailers.
• Identify new business opportunities within existing accounts.
• Present the wines and spirits portfolio and negotiate terms.
• Collaborate with marketing and supply chain for launches and stock management.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activity to inform strategy.
• Conduct regular business reviews with key accounts.
• Ensure consistent brand representation and quality standards.

Skills

Key account management

Negotiation

Relationship building

Presentation skills

Communication

Sales strategy

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree (Business/Marketing/Hospitality)

Tools

CRM software

Sales analytics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious winery and spirits distributor known for its premium portfolio, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Key Account Manager to join their esteemed team in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**. This strategic role is focused on cultivating and expanding relationships with key accounts in the hospitality and retail sectors, driving sales, and ensuring brand presence in a competitive market. You will be responsible for managing a portfolio of high-value clients, understanding their business needs, and delivering tailored solutions that drive mutual growth. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the wine and spirits industry, exceptional negotiation skills, and a proven track record of managing and growing key accounts. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a leading brand within the vibrant **Stellenbosch** wine region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic account plans to achieve and exceed sales targets within the assigned key accounts.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key decision-makers in hotels, restaurants, and retail liquor stores.
• Identify opportunities for new business development and expansion within existing accounts.
• Present and promote our client's extensive portfolio of wines and spirits, highlighting unique selling propositions.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and promotional activities to secure favorable business outcomes.
• Collaborate with marketing and supply chain teams to ensure successful product launches and efficient stock management.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and customer feedback to inform strategic decisions.
• Conduct regular business reviews with key accounts to assess performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure consistent brand representation and adherence to our client's quality standards.

Requirements

• Proven experience in key account management or a senior sales role, with a strong preference for the wine and spirits or luxury goods industry.
• Excellent understanding of the **Western Cape** wine and spirits market, including key players and consumer trends.
• Exceptional negotiation, presentation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong, lasting relationships with clients.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategic account plans.
• Proficiency in CRM software and sales analytics tools.
• A proactive, results-oriented mindset with strong analytical abilities.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality Management, or a related field is highly desirable.
• Flexibility to travel within the **Stellenbosch** region and surrounding areas is required, with a hybrid work model enabling balance.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with lucrative commission and bonus structures.
• Allowance for business travel and expenses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement savings plan.
• Access to exclusive wine and spirits tastings and industry events.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within a renowned company.
• Employee discounts on premium products.