Junior External Sales Consultant – FMCG Ingredients [must be living in Cape Town]

Overview

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Business Development

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing customers.
• Identify and secure new business opportunities within the FMCG and food manufacturing sectors.
• Conduct regular customer visits to understand client needs and provide suitable product solutions.
• Promote the company's range of food ingredients and related products.
• Achieve and exceed monthly sales targets and KPIs.
• Prepare and deliver professional sales presentations and product demonstrations.

Account Management

• Manage customer accounts and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Monitor customer purchasing trends and proactively identify opportunities for growth.
• Follow up on quotations, pricing requests, and customer enquiries.
• Resolve customer concerns and complaints professionally and efficiently.

Order Processing & Administration

• Process customer orders accurately and ensure timely delivery.
• Liaise with internal departments including procurement, logistics, and accounts.
• Maintain accurate CRM and customer records.
• Prepare sales reports, activity reports, and market feedback for management.

Market Intelligence

• Monitor competitor activities and market trends.
• Provide feedback on customer requirements, pricing, and industry developments.
• Assist in developing sales strategies to increase market share.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Matric (Grade 12) essential.
• Sales, Marketing, Business Management, or related qualification advantageous.

Experience

• 1–3 years' external sales experience within FMCG, food ingredients, food manufacturing, or a related industry.
• Experience managing customer accounts and processing orders.
• Proven ability to meet sales targets and grow customer accounts.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong sales and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Customer-focused with strong relationship-building abilities.
• Good administrative and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a sales territory effectively.
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Experience using CRM systems advantageous.
• Strong problem-solving and time-management skills.

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's licence and own reliable vehicle essential.
• Willingness to travel within the assigned sales region.
• Resides within a reasonable commuting distance of Montague Gardens.

Personal Attributes

• Energetic and self-motivated.
• Professional and well-presented.
• Results-driven with a passion for sales.
• Strong work ethic and attention to detail.
• Ability to build trust and long-term customer relationships.
• Adaptable and eager to learn about products and industry trends.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Monthly sales revenue and gross profit targets.
• New customer acquisition.
• Customer retention and account growth.
• Order accuracy and processing efficiency.
• Customer satisfaction and service levels.
• Sales activity targets (customer visits, calls, and quotations).