Account Manager

Full description

Department Commercial Number of Positions 1 Location - Town / City Port Shepstone Required Education Level Diploma | Advanced Certificate Job Advert Summary We are seeking a results-driven Account Manager to maximise sales and profitability within an allocated portfolio of stores. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing account plans, driving sales growth, maintaining outlet standards, managing customer relationships, identifying business opportunities, negotiating orders, and overseeing merchandising activities. The role also includes leading, coaching, and developing a team of Merchandisers to ensure high performance and excellent customer service. The ideal candidate will possess a National Diploma, a valid Code 10 driver's licence, strong business and sales acumen, excellent negotiation and communication skills, and the ability to influence stakeholders, manage people effectively, and deliver results in a fast-paced retail environment. Requirements - National Diploma in a relevant field. - Fluent in Business English (written and verbal). - Intermediate computer literacy. - Valid Code 10 driver's licence. - Willingness and ability to travel extensively, including overnight stays when required. - Experience engaging and working with senior management. - Proven sales, account management, or customer relationship management experience will be advantageous. - Strong ability to analyse sales data, negotiate effectively, and identify business growth opportunities. - Ability to manage, coach, and develop teams to achieve performance targets. - Excellent planning, organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Competencies - Coaching and developing people - Ability to influence and build strong relationships - Proactive and action-orientated approach - Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills - Commitment to maintaining high standards - Ability to build and lead high-performing teams - Strong business and commercial acumen - Excellent interpersonal skills - Performance management and team leadership - High levels of commitment, drive, and motivation - Customer-focused mindset - Effective verbal and written communication skills - Strong negotiation and influencing abilities - Numerical and analytical capability - Planning, organising, and prioritisation skills - Ability to identify and capitalise on sales opportunities - Results-driven with a focus on achieving sales targets - Ability to work independently and manage multiple accounts effectively - Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced environment - Sound relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills Duties and Responsibilities - Develop and execute account plans to drive sales growth and achieve business targets within allocated stores. - Build and maintain strong relationships with customers and key stakeholders. - Plan daily sales activities and prepare effective call cycle plans. - Complete all required sales administration and reporting accurately and timeously. - Monitor outlet compliance with company merchandising, branding, and service standards, and rectify identified deviations. - Manage back-up storage facilities and ensure optimal stock availability. - Generate, negotiate, and confirm customer orders to maximise sales opportunities. - Identify new business opportunities and implement initiatives to grow market share. - Analyse sales performance and implement corrective actions where required. - Conduct regular store visits to ensure execution excellence and customer satisfaction. - Negotiate promotional activities and support the implementation of marketing initiatives. - Review account performance and recommend strategies to improve profitability and sales growth. - Lead, coach, and develop Merchandisers to improve performance and capability. - Identify skills gaps within the team and implement appropriate development plans. - Manage team performance through regular feedback, coaching, and performance reviews. - Create and maintain a positive, motivated, and high-performance work environment. - Ensure adherence to company policies, procedures, and safety standards. - Prepare and present sales insights, recommendations, and account updates to management. - Travel as required to support customers, business objectives, and account growth initiatives.