National Sales Manager - FMCG Beverages

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company car/allowance

Commission and bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career progression

Performance reviews

Wellness programs

Expense account

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a National Sales Manager for the beverage division to develop and execute national sales strategies, drive revenue, and grow market share from Durban.

You will lead a high-performing sales team across the country, build strong customer relationships with key accounts, distributors and retailers, and collaborate with Marketing, Operations and Finance to ensure successful sales plans.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or a related field.
• MBA is a plus.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive sales experience in FMCG, with national-level leadership.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive national sales strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Set ambitious sales targets and quotas for the team and reps.
• Motivate, coach and manage the national sales force for high performance.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with national accounts, distributors and retailers.
• Analyze sales data, market trends and competitors to identify opportunities and threats.
• Develop and manage the sales budget for cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Deliver compelling sales presentations to stakeholders.
• Oversee sales processes and systems to optimize efficiency.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Operations and Finance to ensure seamless execution of plans.
• Recruit, train and develop new sales talent.
• Report on sales performance and forecasts to senior leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

CRM software

Sales analytics

Strategic thinking

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration/Marketing/Sales

MBA

Tools

CRM software

Sales analytics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing player in the FMCG sector, is seeking an accomplished and results-driven National Sales Manager to lead their beverage division. This senior role will be responsible for developing and executing national sales strategies to achieve ambitious revenue and market share targets. You will manage, mentor, and inspire a high-performing sales team across the country, fostering a culture of excellence and customer focus. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the South African FMCG beverage market, a proven ability to build strong customer relationships, and exceptional leadership skills. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact on a thriving business. The position is strategically located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , offering excellent logistical access and a strong commercial presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive national sales strategy aligned with the company's overall business objectives.
• Set ambitious sales targets and quotas for the sales team and individual representatives.
• Manage, motivate, and coach the national sales force, ensuring high levels of performance and engagement.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key national accounts, distributors, and retail partners.
• Analyze sales data, market trends, and competitor activities to identify opportunities and threats.
• Develop and manage the sales budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Create and deliver compelling sales presentations to internal and external stakeholders.
• Oversee the implementation of sales processes and systems to optimize efficiency and effectiveness.
• Collaborate closely with Marketing, Operations, and Finance departments to ensure seamless execution of sales plans.
• Recruit, train, and develop new sales talent.
• Report on sales performance, market insights, and forecast to senior leadership.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales, or a related field.
• An MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive sales experience within the FMCG sector, with at least 3-4 years in a sales management role, preferably at a national level.
• Proven track record of consistently achieving and exceeding sales targets in the beverage category.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African FMCG beverage market, including distribution channels and key players.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing sales teams.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficiency in CRM software and sales analytics tools.
• Ability to travel nationally as required.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa .

Benefits

• A highly competitive annual salary package up to ZAR , commensurate with experience.
• Generous commission and bonus structure tied to performance.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund benefits.
• Company car or car allowance.
• Significant opportunities for career progression within a growing organization.
• Annual performance reviews with potential for salary increases.
• A dynamic and supportive team environment in Durban .
• Employee wellness programs and initiatives.
• Expense account for business-related activities.
• Be a key leader in shaping the future of a leading FMCG beverage brand.