The Sales Manager is responsible for leading and managing the sales team to ensure profitable day-to-day sales operations. The role focuses on achieving sales targets, increasing market share, maintaining strong customer relationships, and ensuring operational efficiency within the branch. The Sales Manager will also oversee financial performance, risk management, and staff development while ensuring that all company policies and operational procedures are followed.

Key Responsibilities Sales and Business Development

• Develop and implement sales strategies to drive revenue growth and achieve branch targets.

• Conduct market research to analyse trends, market conditions, regulatory changes, and competitor activities.

• Monitor sales performance and adjust strategies to maximise revenue and market share.

• Identify opportunities for growth, including expanding the customer base and introducing new products or services.

• Manage and grow key customer accounts while maintaining strong business relationships.

Operational Management

• Oversee daily branch sales operations to ensure efficiency and profitability.

• Manage company assets and ensure proper utilisation and control.

• Supervise sales staff and ensure they understand and meet their key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Develop and implement strategies to improve sales team productivity and performance.

• Work closely with the Regional Manager regarding sales strategies, financial performance, staffing, and operational matters.

• Ensure all internal processes, policies, and system procedures are adhered to.

Financial Management

• Prepare and manage branch sales budgets.

• Monitor and manage branch gross profit margins.

• Drive growth in market share to achieve financial targets.

• Ensure branch performance meets EBIT objectives.

Customer Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers.

• Address customer queries, complaints, and service issues promptly and effectively.

• Collect and analyse customer feedback to improve service delivery and operations.

• Identify opportunities to upsell or cross-sell additional products and services.

Risk Management

• Conduct risk assessments related to operational processes, financial management, market conditions, and staff retention.

• Identify potential risks and develop strategies to minimise their impact.

• Communicate risks and mitigation strategies to customers, staff, and senior management.

Reporting

• Prepare and submit monthly reports to the Regional Manager.

• Provide updates on operational issues, staff matters, sales prospects, and forecasts.

• Coordinate with the finance department to ensure accurate financial reporting.

• Analyse potential customers and future sales opportunities.

Human Resource Management

• Manage sales staff leave balances and attendance.

• Address and resolve staff-related issues.

• Assist with staff disciplinary processes and terminations when required.

• Promote strong team morale and a positive working environment.

• Support staff training, development, and performance improvement.

• Participate in the recruitment and onboarding of new sales team members.

Qualifications and Experience

• Matric (Grade 12).

• 5–10 years’ experience in a similar industry environment.

• Minimum of 5 years’ management experience.

• Strong understanding of the hydraulics industry, products, and services.

• Proven ability to manage and lead sales teams effectively.

• Experience with ERP systems; Syspro experience is advantageous.

• Advanced computer skills including the full Microsoft Office Suite.

• Strong financial management skills including budgeting, forecasting, analysis, and reporting.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.