Job Purpose:

The External Sales Representative is responsible for servicing existing retail stores and selected industrial accounts across the Western Cape. This role includes expanding product offerings within these accounts, sourcing new customers, and gathering competitive market intelligence. The ideal candidate will have experience calling on retail stores, though experience in selling adhesives and hardware is not required.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Customer Servicing:

   • Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing retail and industrial customers in the Western Cape.
   • Provide regular support and product assistance to existing clients, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.
   • Conduct in-person visits to customer locations, offering solutions, addressing concerns, and optimizing the product range.

2. Product Expansion:

   • Identify opportunities to introduce and expand the product range within current accounts.
   • Effectively present and upsell additional products based on customer needs and preferences.
   • Ensure customers are informed of new product launches and special promotions.

3. Competitor Feedback & Market Insights:

   • Monitor competitor activities in the region and provide feedback regarding pricing, product offerings, and market strategies.
   • Regularly report competitive intelligence to the sales manager and team for strategic decision-making.

4. New Business Development:

   • Source new retail and industrial accounts to increase the customer base.
   • Actively seek new business opportunities by networking, attending industry events, and prospecting in the field.
   • Generate and maintain a steady pipeline of potential clients to meet sales targets.

5. Reporting and Administration:

   • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of customer interactions, sales, and market information.
   • Regularly report on sales progress, market conditions, and competitor activities to management.
   • Handle administrative duties including preparing quotations, processing orders, and following up on leads.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Growth in sales within existing customer accounts.
• Achievement of new business acquisition goals.
• Insights and feedback provided on competitor activities and market trends.
• Customer satisfaction and account retention.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education: Minimum high school diploma, with preference given to candidates with a relevant sales or business qualification.
• Experience: 3+ years of experience in external sales, ideally with experience calling on retail stores or similar customer-facing roles (experience in selling adhesives and hardware is not required but will be beneficial).
• Proven ability to manage accounts and develop new business in a competitive market.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong sales and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Knowledge of the Western Cape market and local business environment.
• Proficiency in CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a customer-focused approach.
• Ability to identify sales opportunities and close deals effectively.

Additional Requirements:

• Must possess a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for regular travel within the Western Cape.