Key Accounts Manager_Exports

Prominent Paints; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading paint company in South Africa is seeking an individual for export sales management to enhance market presence across Africa. Responsibilities include developing sales strategies, managing key accounts, and ensuring compliance with export regulations. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree, strong negotiation skills, and experience in driving sales growth in international markets. The position offers market-related remuneration and requires extensive travel.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to drive sales growth in international markets.
• Strong negotiation and closing skills.
• In-depth understanding of export regulations and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute export sales strategies for African markets.
• Manage and support existing accounts while seeking new opportunities.
• Conduct market research to identify trends and opportunities.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Sales growth in international markets

Building relationships

Understanding client needs

Market research

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field

Matric

Job description

Introduction

The incumbent must build relationships, add value and ensure that our products are appropriately placed in the market.

The incumbent will perform sales duties relating to all orders, managing key accounts, and maximising sales opportunities within Africa.

Duties & Responsibilities

Develop and execute export sales strategies to grow paint sales in African markets.Identify and establish relationships with new distributors, agents, and clients across Africa.Manage and support existing accounts, ensuring customer satisfaction and business growth.Conduct market research to understand regional needs, trends, pricing, and competitive activity.Prepare and negotiate commercial offers, contracts, and pricing agreements.Collaborate with production, logistics, and finance teams to ensure timely order fulfilment and smooth export operations.Attend industry trade shows, exhibitions, and networking events to promote the brand.Monitor sales performance by market and product line; provide monthly and quarterly reporting to management.Ensure compliance with export regulations, documentation, and customs requirements in various African countries.Provide product training and technical support to partners and customers as neededProvide operating, financial transparency to guide decision making at all levels to achieve profitability goalsBuild and institute capabilities to drive and, most importantly, sustain financial and operating performanceAccountability for achieving financial results as identified in the strategy document(s)Effective customer segmentation, distributor selection / de-selection, planning, marketing and competency development to deliver financial goalsDevelop business plans and strategies with distributors in alignment with market dynamics and business goalsDevelop sound pricing strategies in alignment within Africa pricing policiesWork in collaboration with Sales and Marketing Team to assess market based on competitive intelligence information as well as market research initiativesDrive reduction in Write-off and inventory risk to Company for Old & Slow Accountable for Operational Excellence for designated sales area.

Effectively deploys standard processes that enable world-class performance.Strong Paint technical and sales knowledgeA very hands-on management style will be required in this roleEnsure compliance discipline by operating within the law of the country of operation and applicable international laws and trade agreements and executing all tasks in full compliance with company policiesAccountable for contracts, insurance and tax documentation compliance associated with sales done from designated market to defined markets with the African region.Monitors customer profitability performance and directs improvements in the account plan.Accountable for execution of the sales process, demand planning, building distributor competency.

This would include standardizing processes, practices, and tools to ensure efficient and profitable growth.This position will require management of direct reports of business consultants and admin staff.

Desired Experience & Qualification

MatricBachelor's degree (or National Diploma) in Business Administration, Sales & Marketing, International TradeAdvantageous, a specialization in International Business TradePaint and Construction Experience is CriticalSales Experience in Export is Essential Proven ability to drive sales growth in international markets.Strong negotiation and closing skills.Ability to identify, develop, and expand into new export markets.Building and maintaining long‑term relationships with key distributors, wholesalers, and retailers.Understanding client needs and providing tailored solutions.Managing contract terms, pricing, and service levels effectively.In‑depth understanding of export regulations, customs procedures, and documentation.Familiarity with Incoterms, shipping processes, and cross‑border compliance.Knowledge of tariffs, duties, and international payment methodsTechnical understanding of decorative paints, coatings, and related products.Ability to explain product specifications, application processes, and benefits to clients.Awareness of competitor products and industry trends.Conducting market research and competitor analysis in African markets.Developing export sales strategies aligned with company goals.Identifying opportunities in untapped regions.Ability to prepare clear sales reports, forecasts, and performance dashboards.Familiarity with digital marketing and e‑commerce for export growthAbility to work under pressure in competitive export markets.Willingness to travel extensively and adapt to different cultural contexts.Resilience in handling trade barriers, logistical challenges, or regulatory changes.Coordinating with supply chain, logistics, and production teams.Providing support and training to local distributors or sales reps.Leading cross-border negotiations and partnerships

Package & Remuneration

Market related.