Technical Sales Specialist

Manuchar SA; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A global chemical distribution leader is seeking a Technical Sales Specialist to leverage expertise in chemical compounds within the Human Nutrition industry. This hybrid role involves providing technical product support, driving business development, and collaborating with internal teams while ensuring compliance with quality regulations. Ideal candidates have 5-7 years in a technical role, a relevant degree, and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years in a technical role within the Human Nutrition industry.
• Experience in sales/customer-facing roles.
• Logistics/distribution background advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical product support and training.
• Liaison between customers and internal stakeholders.
• Drive innovation and business development.
• Support customer trials and technical issue resolution.
• Monitor industry trends for sales growth.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical and strategic thinking

Excellent communication and presentation

Customer-focused problem-solving

Attention to detail

Education

BSc in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Technical Sales Specialist

Location: Hybrid

Reports to: Commercial Manager / Managing Director

Direct Reports: Technical Sales Support

Purpose of the Role

The Technical Sales Specialist will leverage deep expertise in chemical compounds and their applications to support the commercial team, convert leads into sales, and drive market mapping, business development, and R&D initiatives, with a strong focus on the Human Nutrition industry.

About Manuchar

Manuchar is a global leader in raw chemical distribution, international trade, and logistics, with over 35 years’ experience and presence in 160+ locations worldwide. The company is recognized for its reliability and end-to-end supply chain solutions across emerging markets.

Key Expertise & Requirements

• Knowledge: Chemical compounds, industrial applications, market insights, R&D, project management, business intelligence, and sales fundamentals.
• Qualifications: BSc in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Master’s advantageous).
• Experience: 5–7 years in a technical role within the Human Nutrition industry, with exposure to sales / customer-facing roles. Logistics / distribution background advantageous.
• Skills: Strong leadership, analytical and strategic thinking, adaptability, excellent communication and presentation, proven sales techniques, customer-focused problem-solving, and attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical product support, training, and application guidance to internal teams and clients.
• Act as a liaison between customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders on technical matters.
• Drive innovation and business development through new product initiatives and customer generation.
• Support customer trials, product qualification, and technical issue resolution.
• Monitor industry trends and collaborate on strategic sales plans for growth.
• Ensure compliance with chemical safety and quality regulations, supporting audits, product registrations, and SDS reviews.
• Collaborate with commercial and procurement teams to evaluate suppliers and new materials.

Key Interactions

Internal (Executives, Sales, Operations, Marketing) and External (Customers, Suppliers, Service Providers).

Expectations

The role requires upholding Manuchar’s values of reliability, integrity, innovation, and exceptional service delivery, acting as a brand ambassador while ensuring ethical and responsible business practices.