Head of Sales

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:
REQUIREMENTS Degree or National Diploma in Sales, Marketing, Business Management, Engineering, or related field Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in automotive sales\/ commercial management Proven experience within automotive component manufacturing Strong OEM customer network within South Africa Demonstrated experience in business development and customer relationship management Experience dealing with RFQs, pricing negotiations, and commercial agreements Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing environments and supply chain dynamics Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills Willingness to travel as required  ADVANTAGEOUS Experience working with international automotive groups Exposure to APQP\/ program management processes Understanding of OEM launch and production environments Existing relationships with OEMs such as Volkswagen Group South Africa, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa, Toyota South Africa Motors, BMW Group South Africa, or Mercedes-Benz South Africa KEY COMPETENCIES Relationship-building ability Commercial acumen Strategic thinking Negotiation skills Influencing and networking capability Customer-focused approach Leadership and decision-making ability Results-driven mindset  RESPONSIBILITIES Lead the commercial and business development function for the company by strengthening OEM customer relationships, identifying new business opportunities, driving sales growth, and positioning the business as a preferred supplier within the automotive manufacturing sector Business development and growth Identify and pursue new business opportunities with OEMs and Tier 1 automotive customers Drive RFQ, quotation, and commercial negotiation processes Develop and implement strategic sales and business development plans Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and industry developments Support growth initiatives aligned to company objectives and localisation strategies Customer relationship management Build and maintain strong relationships with key OEM customers and stakeholders Act as the primary commercial contact for strategic customers Strengthen customer engagement and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction Conduct regular customer visits and business reviews Proactively address commercial concerns and support problem resolution Commercial and strategic leadership Lead commercial negotiations relating to pricing, contracts, and supply agreements Support profitability targets through strategic pricing and cost recovery initiatives Collaborate with operations, engineering, quality, and program management teams to ensure customer expectations are met Participate in strategic planning and support long-term business sustainability Sales and program coordination Oversee customer forecasts, volumes, and sales performance Support launch activities for new programs and engineering changes Ensure effective communication between customers and internal departments Monitor sales KPIs and prepare management reports