National Sales Manager - Beverage Division

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based commission

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Company vehicle

International travel

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a National Sales Manager for our Beverage Division in Centurion, Gauteng. You will drive national sales strategies, lead a regional team, and build strong distributor/retailer relationships to grow market share.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years FMCG sales experience, including 3+ years in management, with a proven beverage sector track record and SA channel expertise. Expect travel, dynamic leadership, and strategic execution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales or related field; MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive sales experience in FMCG with at least 3 years in a managerial role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and growing sales within the beverage industry.
• Strong understanding of SA sales channels, distribution networks and retail environments.
• CRM proficiency and sales analytics capability are essential.
• Ability to travel extensively within South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement national sales strategies to achieve or exceed sales targets for the beverage division.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of regional sales representatives for high performance and customer satisfaction.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, distributors, and retail partners nationwide.
• Analyze sales data, market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities and adapt strategies.
• Manage the sales budget to optimize resource allocation and impact.
• Develop and deliver compelling sales presentations to clients and prospects.
• Oversee sales promotions and marketing initiatives at the point of sale.
• Collaborate with marketing and product teams to align sales with brand strategy and launches.
• Ensure efficient order processing, delivery and customer service support.
• Provide regular sales performance, forecasts and market insights to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Negotiation

Communication

Presentation

Analytical thinking

CRM software

Sales analytics

Willing to travel

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

MBA

Tools

CRM software

Sales analytics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, is seeking an experienced and results-oriented National Sales Manager to lead our thriving Beverage Division. This pivotal role is based in Centurion, Gauteng , and requires a hands-on leader who can drive sales performance across the nation. You will be responsible for developing and executing strategic sales plans, managing a high-performing sales team, and fostering strong relationships with key distributors and retailers. We are looking for an individual with a deep understanding of the beverage market, a proven ability to exceed sales targets, and a passion for building and motivating teams. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on our market presence and contribute to the continued growth and success of our beverage portfolio. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and a relentless drive to achieve sales excellence within the competitive FMCG landscape. You will be the driving force behind our sales strategy, ensuring market penetration and revenue growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement national sales strategies to achieve or exceed sales targets for the beverage division.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of regional sales representatives to ensure high performance and customer satisfaction.
• Build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key customers, distributors, and retail partners across the country.
• Analyze sales data, market trends, and competitor activities to identify new business opportunities and adapt strategies.
• Manage the sales budget effectively, ensuring optimal allocation of resources for maximum impact.
• Develop and deliver compelling sales presentations to potential and existing clients.
• Oversee the implementation of sales promotions and marketing initiatives at the point of sale.
• Collaborate with the marketing and product development teams to align sales efforts with brand strategies and new product launches.
• Ensure efficient order processing, delivery, and customer service support.
• Provide regular reports on sales performance, forecasts, and market insights to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales, or a related field; MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive sales experience in the FMCG sector, with at least 3 years in a managerial role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and growing sales within the beverage industry.
• Strong understanding of sales channels, distribution networks, and retail environments in South Africa.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and coaching skills.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and presentation abilities.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficiency in CRM software and sales analytics tools.
• Ability to travel extensively within the region as required.
• A proactive and results-driven mindset, with a passion for sales.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with attractive performance-based commission and bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Generous leave policy and employee wellness programs.
• A dynamic and supportive work culture within a leading FMCG company.
• Direct impact on the growth and strategy of a significant business unit.
• Access to industry-leading sales training and resources.