Key Account Manager

Compact Food Solutions, situated in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town in Muizenberg, is the local branch of an international food manufacturing facility specialising in therapeutic foods and nutritional solutions.

The company is looking for a Key Account Manager to join the team in the Commercial Department. The incumbent will report to the Managing Director. While the company’s offices are located in Muizenberg, Cape Town, the successful candidate will also be required to travel across major economic hubs in South Africa.

The Key Account Manager is responsible for executing the commercial strategy by leveraging existing networks to secure product listing and Business-to-Business (B2B) manufacturing contracts, as well as driving new business. The job incumbent will maintain an execution focus on identifying opportunities, operational implementation and account management.

Duties:

• Take responsibility for new business execution and retail listings (Business-to-Consumer, and Wholesalers):
- Leverage established relationships and networks within target SA retail and wholesale groups
- Manage all operational aspects required for expedient product launch (trade negotiation, forecasting, logistics, initial merchandising)
- Position the meal replacement sachet perfectly in the market
- Maintain a relative price point balance for the target consumers

• Take responsibility for B2B White label manufacturing:
- Identify and engage medium-to-large sized food and consumer goods companies requiring white label manufacturing
- Drive the sales process (initial pitch, negotiation, final contract signing)
- Act as the commercial interface between the company’s teams and the clients

• Take responsibility for account management and volume generation:
- Track and report on key account metrics (immediate sales volumes, stock turnover, profitability)
- Maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers (buyers, category managers, procurement teams)
- Act as key liaison for operational account issues

Requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Commerce, Business Management or Sales
• At least 5-7 years of highly operational experience in Key Account Management or New Business Development within South African FMCG / food manufacturing industry
• Must possess an established, verifiable network of key buys and decision-makers within major SA wholesale and mass market retail groups
• Knowledge of food safety standards (HACCP, ISO 22000, FSSC), quality control, and regulatory compliance in the food industry will be advantageous
• Familiarity with sustainability practices
• Computer literate (MS Office, i-Comply, intermediate to advanced Excel skills, experience with H&S Management systems)
• Commercial acumen with a proven ability to negotiate complex trading terms, manage large product listings and understand B2B contract manufacturing cycles
• Must be able to travel to wholesalers, buyers and other potential business partners to negotiate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders
• Excellent verbal and written communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills
• High energy and a sense of urgency to secure rapid and tangible results
• Flexible, adaptable and able to pivot quickly
• Able to maintain high standards, good work ethic and integrity

The company offers market-related remuneration and pension benefits, based on the successful applicant’s experience and qualifications.