Sales Director - FMCG National Accounts (Remote)

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is actively seeking a visionary and highly accomplished Sales Director to lead their National Accounts division. This is a strategic, fully remote position, empowering you to operate from anywhere within South Africa. You will be responsible for developing and executing high-level sales strategies aimed at securing and growing key national accounts, driving significant revenue growth, and expanding market share. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in FMCG sales leadership, a deep understanding of national retail and wholesale channels, and a proven ability to build and maintain robust relationships with major clients. You will lead a team of experienced account managers, setting clear objectives and fostering a high-performance culture.

This role demands exceptional strategic thinking, negotiation prowess, and a commitment to driving business success through strong client partnerships. We are looking for a dynamic leader who can navigate complex negotiations and deliver exceptional results in a competitive market from a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive national sales strategies to achieve and exceed revenue targets for key accounts within the FMCG sector.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of National Account Managers, setting performance goals and fostering a results-driven culture.
• Build and nurture strong, long-term strategic relationships with major national retailers, wholesalers, and distributors.
• Negotiate complex contracts, pricing agreements, promotional terms, and distribution plans with key national accounts.
• Analyze market trends, competitor activities, and sales data to identify growth opportunities and develop proactive strategies.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, operations, and finance departments to ensure alignment and seamless execution of sales plans.
• Develop and manage the national accounts sales budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and maximum ROI.
• Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and key client meetings.
• Provide strategic direction and insights to support product development and portfolio expansion initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales Management, or a related field. An MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification is highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in sales leadership roles within the FMCG industry, with a strong focus on managing national accounts.
• Proven track record of successfully leading sales teams and achieving significant revenue growth with major clients.
• Exceptional negotiation, strategic account management, and relationship-building skills.
• Deep understanding of the South African FMCG retail and wholesale landscape.
• Strong analytical and business acumen, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and market insights.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute winning sales strategies in a competitive environment.
• Proven ability to thrive and lead effectively in a fully remote work setting.
• Willingness to travel nationally as required for key client meetings and strategic initiatives.

Benefits

• This is a fully remote role offering the ultimate in flexibility and work-life balance, allowing you to operate from anywhere in South Africa.
• Our client offers an industry-leading salary package, significant performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive executive benefits, including premium medical aid and robust retirement provisions.
• You will be empowered with resources and support to excel in your role and have access to ongoing professional development.
• Join a prestigious and growing FMCG organization where your strategic leadership will drive national sales success and offer unparalleled career progression opportunities.