National Sales Manager - FMCG Beverages

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Company vehicle

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a National Sales Manager for a leading FMCG beverage division based in Vereeniging, Gauteng. The role heads a national team, crafts strategies and drives revenue growth across South Africa, partnering with retailers and distributors.

You will lead a high-performing force, manage budgets, and align with Marketing and Operations to maximize profitability and market share, travel nationally as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales Management or related field.
• MBA or equivalent qualification is highly desirable.
• 7–10 years of progressive sales experience in FMCG, with beverage focus.
• 4–5 years in a senior sales leadership role managing national teams.
• Proven track record in hitting ambitious targets and driving growth.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement national sales strategies for the beverage portfolio.
• Lead, mentor and motivate the national sales team.
• Develop relationships with national retailers, distributors and partners.
• Analyze sales data and market trends to identify growth opportunities.
• Oversee the sales budget and ensure profitability.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Operations and Product Development.
• Develop and deliver sales training programs for the team.
• Ensure optimal product placement, pricing and promotions.
• Report forecasts and market insights to senior leadership.

Skills

Team leadership

Strategic thinking

Sales analytics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales Management, or related discipline

MBA or equivalent

Tools

CRM systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is actively seeking an accomplished National Sales Manager to spearhead their beverage division. Based in Vereeniging, Gauteng , this pivotal role involves developing and executing nationwide sales strategies, managing a team of regional sales professionals, and cultivating robust relationships with key national accounts. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in the beverage category within FMCG, a deep understanding of distribution channels, and a proven track record of driving significant revenue growth. You will be instrumental in shaping the sales direction of our client's popular beverage brands, ensuring market leadership and optimal performance across South Africa. This is a strategic leadership opportunity for a results-driven professional seeking to make a substantial impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement comprehensive national sales strategies for the beverage portfolio to achieve volume, revenue, and market share targets.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate the national sales team, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Develop and manage key relationships with national retailers, distributors, and other strategic partners.
• Analyze sales performance data, market trends, and competitor activities to identify growth opportunities and inform strategic decisions.
• Oversee the sales budget, ensuring effective resource allocation and maximizing profitability.
• Collaborate closely with Marketing, Operations, and Product Development teams to ensure alignment and execution of commercial plans.
• Develop and implement effective sales training programs for the sales force.
• Ensure optimal product placement, pricing, and promotional execution in key accounts.
• Report on sales performance, forecasts, and market insights to senior leadership.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales Management, or a related discipline.
• An MBA or equivalent is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive sales experience in the FMCG industry, with a strong emphasis on the beverage category.
• At least 4-5 years in a senior sales leadership role with proven experience managing national sales teams.
• Demonstrated success in achieving and exceeding ambitious sales targets within a competitive market.
• In-depth knowledge of FMCG distribution models and retail environments in South Africa.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, presentation, and leadership skills.
• Strong analytical and strategic planning capabilities.
• Proficiency in sales management software and CRM systems.
• Willingness to travel extensively nationally.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance bonuses, company vehicle, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund. This role provides a unique opportunity for career advancement, extensive professional development, and the chance to lead a critical business unit within a highly respected FMCG organization. You will be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team environment.