Key Account Manager

SUMMARY:
our client is looking for a key accounts manager to join their team

POSITION INFO:
The Key Accounts Manager will be responsible for managing and growing strategic customer accounts within the retail sector while driving profitable sales growth and maintaining strong customer relationships. This role includes account management, customer service, forecasting, reporting, negotiation, stock management, market research, pricing management, and identifying new business development opportunities. The ideal candidate will have strong commercial and relationship management skills, experience within retail or horticultural environments, and the ability to coordinate effectively with internal departments to ensure excellent service delivery and customer satisfaction. Customer Relationship Management: Maintain and strengthen relationships with key retail customers and stakeholders. Ensure excellent customer service and account management standards are maintained at all times. Conduct regular customer visits, account reviews, and relationship-building activities. Address and resolve customer complaints, concerns, and operational issues professionally and timeously. Maintain regular communication with customers regarding product availability, promotions, pricing, and operational matters. Sales Growth and Business Development: Drive profitable sales growth within assigned accounts and achieve company sales targets. Identify opportunities for growth and increased market share within existing and potential accounts. Develop and implement sales strategies to support revenue growth and customer retention. Monitor market activity, customer trends, and competitor performance. Assist with identifying and developing new markets and business opportunities. Forecasting, Reporting and Analysis: Prepare accurate sales forecasts and customer demand projections. Monitor and report on account performance, sales trends, and market activity. Analyse sales data, profitability, pricing, and customer performance. Prepare and present reports to management regarding sales performance and commercial activities. Ensure effective communication of forecasts and customer requirements to internal stakeholders. Pricing, Negotiation and Commercial Management: Conduct customer and supplier negotiations within approved company parameters. Manage pricing structures, calculations, formulas, and profit margins. Monitor pricing accuracy and profitability across accounts. Support promotional planning and commercial activities to maximise sales opportunities. Ensure all commercial activities align with company objectives and profitability targets. Stock Control and Operational Coordination: Monitor stock levels and product availability within customer accounts. Coordinate with production, logistics, procurement, and operational departments to ensure efficient service delivery. Assist with managing stock rotation, replenishment, and display requirements. Ensure operational issues affecting customers are addressed promptly. Support internal departments to maintain efficient workflow and customer satisfaction. Knowledge, experience and personal competencies Matric. Minimum 3-5 years' retail sales or key account management experience. Knowledge of the plant, horticultural, agricultural, or retail industry advantageous. Horticulture Diploma or related qualification advantageous. Computer literacy in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint & Outlook). Strong communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship management skills. Sound analytical, problem-solving, organisational, and project management skills. Knowledge of pricing calculations, merchandising, stock control, and market analysis. Strong customer service orientation with the ability to manage customer relationships effectively. High levels of integrity, accountability, professionalism, and attention to detail. Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work independently under pressure. Team player with strong interp