Area Sales Manager - Nelspruit

Job Description

RCL FOODS is a deeply rooted South African food manufacturer that produces some of the country’s most-loved brands: Yum Yum peanut butter, Nola mayonnaise, Ouma rusks, and Selati sugar, just to name a few. At the heart of our culture and strategy is our Purpose – WE GROW WHAT MATTERS – which encapsulates our belief in collectively doing that little more to create a positive impact that matters.

Visit our website at: www.rclfoods.com

We are seeking an experienced Area Sales Manager to support our Baking Division in Nelspruit.

The purpose of this role is to drive bread sales growth within the retail trade channel by managing existing retail accounts, growing shelf presence, executing promotions, ensuring product availability, developing and maintaining customer relationships and increasing market share. The retail trade sales specialist is responsible for delivering volume, visibility and value growth through effective in-store execution and customer relationship management.

Duties & Responsibilities

Account Management

• Manage and grow a defined portfolio of accounts (Retail, HORECA, Forecourt).
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with regional and store managers
• Plan and execute a structured call cycle to ensure optimal territory coverage.
• Ensure all products are merchandised according to planograms and brand standards.
• Monitor shelf space, product rotation (FIFO), price compliance and stock levels.
• Implement and maintain promotional displays and in-store campaigns.

Order Management

• Ensure daily orders are reviewed, manage order frequency and follow-up on deliveries.
• Work closely with distribution for accurate and timely deliveries.
• Manage stock wastage from store, non-deliveries and claims
• Track and report daily/weekly/monthly sales targets and KPI ‘s.
• Provide feedback on sales performance, customer issues and competitor movements.
• Handle returns and ensure adherence to freshness and quality.

Customer Relationship

• Build strong relationships with store owners, store managers and regional managers
• Educate customers on products, pricing and promotions.
• Handle service issues professionally and promptly.
• Design plans with customers to increase sales

Market Intelligence

• Monitor competitor activity: pricing, promotions, packaging and shelf placement.
• Report trends and provide feedback to the Regional Sales Manager and General Manager.
• Identify opportunities for growth within stores or new store openings.

Reporting and Administration

• Maintain accurate sales records, call reports and performance metrics.
• Submit daily/weekly reports on store visits, sales performance and market feedback.
• Track stock levels, orders and stock level through sales data.
• Design plans with customers to increase sales

Effective Teamwork and Self-Management

• Take ownership and accountability for tasks and activities and demonstrate effective self-management in terms of planning and prioritizing, and self- development.
• Follow through to ensure that quality and productivity standards of work are consistently and accurately maintained.
• Inform relevant parties in the event of tasks or deadlines not met, the potential risks thereof and provide appropriate resolution.
• Manage colleagues and employees’ expectations and communicate appropriately.
• Demonstrate willingness to help others and “go the extra mile” to meet team targets and objectives.
• Effectively lead a team of sales representatives
• Manage KPI performance with our merchandisers/merchandising partners

#LI-TS1

Minimum Requirements

• Matric
• Diploma in Sales or Marketing
• Valid driver ‘s licence
• Minimum 3 to 4 years’ experience in a supervisory role in a Retail Trade environment (bread products advantageous)
• At least 3 Years GT sales supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment (FMCG)
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales target in retail.
• Strong understanding of retail dynamics and relationships with personnel.
• Vast experience working with chain stores and independent retailers.
• Excellent Microsoft office skills