National Sales Manager

Abbott; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic National Sales Manager to lead sales activities across the South African market. This role is pivotal in driving sales growth, enhancing market share, and implementing strategic initiatives. With a focus on building strong relationships with key stakeholders, you will oversee a team of Regional Sales Managers while ensuring operational excellence and compliance. If you have a passion for the pharmaceutical industry and a proven track record in sales management, this is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Over 10 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry.
• At least 4 years’ experience as a National Sales Manager.

Responsibilities

• Drive sales and operations with a commercial-driven mindset.
• Build relationships with key customers and industry players.
• Manage profit margins, plan budgets, and set sales goals.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Leadership

Planning

Problem-solving

Education

Tertiary Qualification in Health Sciences

Business Qualifications

Job description

At Abbott, diverse ideas, perspectives, and expertise allow us to create life-changing solutions that help people live healthier lives. In 150 countries and with businesses spanning nutrition, diagnostics, medical devices, and branded generic pharmaceuticals, Abbott offers you enormous opportunities to explore your interests and help you achieve your career and personal goals.

Abbott’s Established Pharmaceutical Division focuses on offering high-quality branded generic pharmaceuticals to millions of people. We offer treatment options for several areas, including the digestive system, heart health, women’s health, respiratory illness, central nervous system / pain, and influenza vaccines.

Role Overview: The National Sales Manager is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating overall sales activities and strategies across the South African Market. The role aims to increase sales, profits, and market share on a long-term basis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive sales and operations with a commercial-driven mindset to boost sales and achieve cost savings.
• Build relationships with key customers, thought leaders, trade associations, and industry players to facilitate sales and increase visibility and adoption of Abbott EPD products.
• Execute strategies and tactics to increase sales and coach sales teams during national and local meetings.
• Manage profit margins, plan budgets, set sales goals, and assist in creating reliable sales forecasts.
• Translate strategic objectives into operational plans.
• Oversee the implementation of business intelligence models to drive customer segmentation and sales force effectiveness initiatives.
• Monitor activities critical to business needs (Customer Coverage, Account meetings, Cycle Meetings, etc.).
• Assist HR with manpower planning, personnel selection, performance standards, reviews, compensation, and training.
• Partner with marketing, medical, legal, and regulatory teams to develop and execute product strategies.
• Develop, motivate, and challenge team members to achieve performance targets.
• Lead a team of Regional Sales Managers.
• Maintain data integrity and good documentation practices.
• Ensure training is completed as planned and attend quality-related training.
• Report customer complaints within 48 hours and adverse drug reactions within 3 days.
• Support audit readiness activities and participate in audits as required.

Qualifications and Skills:

A Tertiary Qualification in Health Sciences or related field; additional business qualifications are advantageous.

Minimum Skills and Experience:

• Over 10 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry, including doctor detailing and trade (pharmacies and retail).
• At least 4 years’ experience as a National Sales Manager, with FLM/RSMs reporting directly.
• Strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead in a cross-functional team environment.
• Demonstrated passion and alignment with business values.
• Excellent planning, problem-solving, and management skills.
• Proven track record of delivering business objectives and sales success.