Export Area Manager

SUMMARY:

Our client is looking for an experienced and driven Area Export Manager to join their Sales and Marketing team.This individual will be responsible for driving and growing market share—across both products and services—by brand and SKU. The role includes developing existing customer relationships, identifying and securing new business opportunities, and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction in export territories.

POSITION INFO:

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement action plans aligned with the broader export strategy.
• Identify and target new business opportunities, prepare business cases, and introduce new marketing and promotional strategies.
• Conduct regular progress reviews with senior management and provide market feedback.
• Ensure continuous market share growth in alignment with brand strategy.

• Monitor customer buying patterns to assist in accurate stock forecasting.
• Work closely with customers to manage stock levels and product mix.
• Liaise with warehouses to ensure optimal stock availability and resolve any issues.

• Collaborate with finance teams to ensure timely collection of outstanding debts.
• Monitor credit terms and resolve customer queries in coordination with internal stakeholders.
• Proactively manage accounts with potential credit risk.

• Ensure all permits and export documentation are valid and up to date.
• Assist with credit applications and account openings for new customers.
• Maintain accurate customer records and prepare monthly calling cycles.
• Provide point-of-sale material and training to customers as needed.

• Monitor internal controls and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and company policies.
• Maintain risk registers and implement action plans following audit findings.
• Identify and manage operational risks within the export environment.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and customers.
• Represent the company in meetings with clients and respond to customer concerns promptly.
• Implement and oversee systems for stakeholder engagement and satisfaction monitoring.

• Manage performance of service providers and support teams.
• Set performance objectives and implement development plans where needed.
• Ensure adherence to HR policies and procedures within the team.

• Contribute to budget planning and monitor expenditure against approved budgets.
• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives.
• Ensure responsible use of financial and other resources in line with company policy.

Job Requirements

• Minimum: Bachelor’s Degree in Sales and Marketing or a related field (NQF Level 7)
• Advantageous: Honours Degree in Sales and Marketing or related field (NQF Level 8)

• 6 to 8 years’ experience in Sales and Marketing within a manufacturing environment
• At least 3 years of exposure to Sub-Saharan African (SSA) markets

Technical & Behavioural Competencies

• Strong computer literacy, including MS Office Suite, SAP, ERP systems, and other job-specific platforms

• Proactive and action-oriented
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Flexible and resilient
• Excellent planning and organisational skills
• Strong leadership and people management capability
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Customer-focused with proven relationship-building skills