Category Specialist - Schools - Vanderbijlpark / Vereeniging

SUMMARY:
The Sales Consultant for Schools plays a pivotal role in growing and maintaining presence within the Inland region''s education sector.

POSITION INFO:

Category Specialist - Schools - Vanderbijlpark / Vereeniging - R18 000 to R22 000 (depending on qualification & experience)

Drive growth and maintain presence in the education sector by onboarding and retaining schools for the Back2School season and driving ongoing commercial sales.

About Our Client

Our client operates within the education sector and commercial sales market. The company offers a broad product portfolio spanning stationery, office furniture, technology, hygiene supplies, and more to provide tailored solutions to school clients.

The Role: Category Specialist - Schools

The Sales Consultant for Schools plays a pivotal role in growing and maintaining presence within the Inland region''s education sector. The focus is primarily on onboarding and retaining schools for the critical Back2School season, driving ongoing commercial sales throughout the year, and expanding the footprint within the schools segment.

Key Responsibilities

• Hold a minimum of 5 years of sales experience, preferably with exposure to the education sector or related commercial environments.

• Manage a portfolio of existing school clients by delivering exceptional service across all product categories.

• Actively pursue new schools to grow the customer base and increase market penetration within the Inland region.

• Achieve and exceed set sales and gross profit targets by promoting and selling the comprehensive product range.

• Develop strategic sales plans aligned with seasonal and year-round commercial objectives.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in schools, including principals, procurement officers, and administrative personnel.

• Maintain accurate sales records, pipeline status, and customer information, providing regular feedback to the Head of Back to School.

• Work closely with internal teams including Key Account Management, New Business Development Consultants, and Outbound Agents.

About You

• Minimum of 5 years of sales experience, preferably with exposure to the education sector or related commercial environments.

• In-depth understanding of the schools market in South Africa, including procurement processes, budgeting cycles, and decision-making structures.

• Comprehensive knowledge of product categories and how these apply within educational settings.

• Awareness of relevant educational policies and trends affecting purchasing behaviour in schools.

• Proficient in MS Office and CRM or sales management software.

• Valid Code 08 driver''s licence and reliable vehicle to cover the Inland region effectively.

• Customer-centric approach, sales and negotiation skills, clear communication, problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, resilience, planning, organizational, and time management skills.

• Relevant sales or marketing qualification will be an advantage.