Sales and Business Development Specialist

Antal International Network; South Africa; On-site; Confidential; Full time

Job summary

A global trading firm is seeking a Sales and Business Development Specialist to expand its footprint in South Africa. This role involves driving sales of petrochemical raw materials while managing client relationships and trading cycles. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the petrochemical industry, excellent negotiation skills, and a proven record in account management. A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is preferred. This position offers competitive remuneration.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years’ experience in marketing and selling chemicals, solvents, and base oils.
• Previously held a senior role in a chemical trading or distribution company.
• Ability to manage trading cycles, credit risk, and collections effectively.

Responsibilities

• Drive sales of petrochemical raw materials to B2B customers.
• Manage accounts and ensure timely payments.
• Monitor stock levels and ensure smooth delivery to clients.

Skills

Sales experience in petrochemicals

Negotiation skills

Account management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Business

Job description

Sales and Business Development Specialist

Competitive

Location

South Africa

Chemicals / PetroChemical / Plastic / Rubber

Our client, based in the UAE is one of the fastest growing names in manufacturing, distribution and international trade of chemicals and downstream petrochemicals. We are seeking a self-driven Sales & Business Development Specialist to expand their footprint in South Africa. The role focuses on selling petrochemical raw materials to (paints & coatings, adhesives & sealants, cosmetics, flexible packaging, flexible pvc, rubber compounding, edible oils, soap & detergents, oilfield production, lubricants, agro & crop protection) industries through both import trading (50% CFR basis) and local distribution (50%), ensuring efficient stock turnover and timely payment cycles.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive sales of petrochemical raw materials, chemicals, and base oils to B2B customers.
• Manage accounts, negotiate contracts, and close sales in line with 90-day trading cycle requirements.
• Monitor stock levels, coordinate turnover, and ensure smooth delivery to clients.
• Develop and maintain strong customer relationships, expanding the client portfolio in South Africa
• Track competitor activities, market trends, and regulatory developments to support strategy.
• Ensure collections and payments are secured within agreed timelines.

Qualifications & Skills

• At least 5–10 years’ proven experience in marketing and selling chemicals, solvents, and base oils in the SAmarket.
• Currently or previously held a senior designation in a leading chemical trading or distribution company.
• Strong techno-commercial background – able to combine technical product knowledge with commercial acumen.
• Demonstrated success in managing large accounts, securing new business, and delivering sales growth.
• Deep network within south Africa'spetrochemicals, paints, coatings, cosmetics, or lubricants and raw materials sectors.
• Ability to manage trading cycles, credit risk, and collections effectively.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.