Sales Manager

Imforce Recruitment; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 800 000 - 1 100 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency seeks a Sales Manager in Durban to develop and lead sales teams in the homeware sector. The role involves implementing regional strategies, building strong relationships with key buyers, and achieving significant sales growth. Candidates should possess extensive sales experience and strong leadership abilities, along with an openness to travel. Competitive remuneration and a supportive company culture await successful candidates.

Qualifications

• 58 years in sales, with 23 years in a leadership role within homeware, décor, or B2B.
• Strong track record of leading and developing sales teams.
• Deep understanding of the South African retail market in home décor.

Responsibilities

• Roll out regional sales strategies in line with company goals.
• Lead and support a team of Sales Reps to reach their full potential.
• Build lasting relationships with key retail buyers and decision-makers.

Skills

Sales leadership

Communication

Analytical Skills

Industry Knowledge

Technology usage (CRM, Excel, PowerPoint)

Job description

Desired Experience & Qualification

• Experience : 58 years in sales, with 23 years in a leadership role within homeware, décor, or B2B
• Leadership : Strong track record of leading and developing sales teams
• Industry Knowledge : Deep understanding of homeware, curtains, and drapery hardware
• Communication : Strong verbal and written skills; confident with clients and teams
• Analytical Skills : Able to spot trends, evaluate performance, and act on data
• Technology : Comfortable using CRM tools, Excel, PowerPoint, and similar tools
• Travel : Open to regional and national travel (up to 60%)

Duties

• The ideal candidate will know the South African retail market well especially in home décor, curtains, and drapery hardware.
• Roll out regional sales strategies in line with company goals.
• Spot growth opportunities in the local homeware retail market.
• Adjust strategies as needed to stay competitive and relevant.
• Lead and support a team of Sales Reps to reach their full potential.
• Hold regular check-ins and performance reviews.
• Build team spirit through monthly sessions and shared learning.
• Build lasting relationships with key retail buyers and decision-maker.
• Guide the team in closing deals and managing client expectations.
• Make sure product displays are impactful and accessible to shoppers.
• Track team performance against sales targets and KPIs.
• Share regular sales reports, insights, and areas for improvement.
• Use tools like CRM (e.g. RMT) to stay on top of activity and progress.
• Keep an eye on market trends, shopper habits, and competitors.
• Collect feedback from the field and from retail partners.
• Share insights with Product and Marketing to guide product planning.
• Manage the marketing / sample budget responsibly.
• Forecast performance and allocate resources wisely.

PROBATION PERIOD AND PERFORMANCE REVIEW

• Probation : 6 months with close performance monitoring
• Initial Review : At 3 months to check progress and alignment
• Annual Review : Post-probation, covering team growth, sales results, and individual impact

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)

• Sales Growth : Deliver at least 30% annual growth in the region
• Target Achievement : 90% of the team hitting monthly targets
• Customer Satisfaction : Maintain 85%+ satisfaction rateProduct Visibility : Ensure strong placement in a defined % of stores
• Team Development : 100% of team members have growth plans and regular training
• Lead Conversion : Improve retail lead-to-sale conversion by X%

Location: Durban (or nearby); national travel required

Reporting To: CEO / General Manager / Head of Strategy

Reports : Sales Representatives & Merchandisers (if applicable)