Sales & Business Development Specialist

Antal; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading petrochemical company is seeking a Sales Business Development Specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa. The ideal candidate will have 5-10 years of experience in selling chemicals and a strong network within the petrochemical sector. Responsibilities include driving sales, managing accounts, and developing customer relationships. A bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred, along with excellent negotiation and communication skills.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of experience in marketing and selling chemicals in South Africa.
• Senior designation in chemical trading or distribution company.
• Strong technical and commercial background.
• Success in managing large accounts and sales growth.

Responsibilities

• Drive sales of petrochemical raw materials to B2B customers.
• Manage accounts, negotiate contracts, and close sales.
• Monitor stock levels and ensure smooth delivery.
• Develop and maintain customer relationships.
• Track market trends and support strategy.

Skills

Sales experience in chemicals

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Relationship management

Market awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field

Job description

Johannesburg, South Africa | Nationality: South African | Reporting Line: Managing Director

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 and 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 and Skills

• At least 5‑10 years proven experience in marketing and selling chemicals, solvents, and base oils in the South Africa market.
• 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's petrochemicals, 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.