Area Export Manager

SUMMARY:
My client is looking for a driven, commercially sharp Area Export Manager (Sales and Marketing) who knows how to build market share, grow brand presence, and nurture high-value customer relationships across SSA (Sub-Saharan Africa) markets - Elandsfontein, Gauteng.

POSITION INFO:
The ideal candidate is proactive, analytical, and relentless about execution. You love opening new markets, strengthening existing distribution channels, and delivering consistent sales growth by brand and SKU. You’re equally comfortable negotiating with distributors, tackling debtors’ challenges, and keeping governance tight.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement territory action plans aligned with the Export Strategy.
• Ensure adherence to all export and distribution policies and procedures.
• Conduct bi-weekly SBO meetings with the Export Manager to track new business progress.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities supported by business cases.
• Introduce marketing and promotional concepts aligned with the Company Marketing Strategy.
• Monitor customer buying patterns monthly to support accurate forecasting.
• Plan and manage consignment stock in line with stock movement trends.
• Assist customers in managing stock levels and product mix.
• Collaborate with the Warehouse team to ensure stock availability and resolve outstanding queries.
• Share responsibility for the collection of outstanding debtors with the Debtors Department.
• Ensure customers operate within agreed credit terms and assist in resolving queries.
• Proactively manage high-risk customers and implement corrective action plans.
• Communicate credit terms, statements, and payment expectations to customers.
• Ensure export permits remain valid and renewal processes are followed.
• Open new customer accounts based on viability.
• Support customers through the credit application process.
• Provide POS material and deliver claims procedure training.
• Maintain accurate customer data and monthly calling cycles.
• Compile and update call sheets after every customer visit.
• Monitor internal controls and procedures to protect the company’s integrity.
• Identify departmental risks and maintain an up-to-date risk register.
• Track and implement actions arising from internal and external audits.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and policy frameworks.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder and customer relationships.
• Represent the Company in customer meetings.
• Resolve customer issues promptly and professionally while upholding company values.
• Provide guidance on internal stakeholder matters.
• Implement and monitor the stakeholder management process.
• Monitor the performance of internal and external service providers.
• Identify development needs and create action plans to improve performance.
• Set performance objectives for support teams.
• Ensure adherence to HR policies within the division.
• Contribute to annual budget planning.
• Ensure efficient and transparent use of financial and other resources.
• Monitor expenditure and ensure all spend remains within budget.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities.

• Matric.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Sales & Marketing or related field (NQF 7).
• Bachelor’s Honours Degree in Sales & Marketing or related field (NQF 8) - Advantageous.
• 6 - 8 years’ experience in Sales & Marketing within a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum 3+ years’ exposure to SSA (Sub-Saharan Africa) Sales.
• Computer Literacy (MS Office Suite, SAP, ERP systems, job-specific software).
• Understanding of export processes, stock management, credit processes, and sales planning.

• Proactive and action-oriented
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• Flexible and well organised
• People management capability
• Strong relationship-building skills
• Customer-focused and resilient
• Excellent verbal and written communication