Remote: South Africa & United States
TO APPLY, FOLLOW THE LINK: https://forms.gle/dnu4tiVxxKj6YGSk8
Founded in 2015, Baobab Wines is dedicated to bringing the finest South African wines to the United States. Unlike many export-driven brands, they partner with family-owned vineyards that embody the true story of South Africa's rich winemaking heritage. Their portfolio proudly celebrates diversity, with over 50% of their selections coming from a new generation of South African winemakers, many of whom have historically lacked access to land.
With national distribution across the United States, Baobab Wines has earned a reputation for offering one of the most exciting South African wine collections. As they embark on the next phase of expansion, they are seeking a passionate and experienced Sales Director to drive growth, establish new partnerships, and elevate their brand in the United States and beyond.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Sales Director role encompasses, but is not limited, to the following key activities and responsibilities:
- Achieve the company's financial, volume, and profit goals
- Identify and pursue new sales opportunities, from prospecting to closing deals, in a competitive environment requiring persistence and diligent follow-up
- Report regularly on sales metrics and performance
- Collaborate with the CEO to develop and implement company-wide sales strategies
- Communicate territory successes and challenges to the CEO, proactively addressing any obstacles
- Stay informed about competitors, market trends, and developments in the wine industry, including geographic regions and key accounts
- Promote Baobab Wines’ portfolio to consumers through various programmes and events
- Offer market insights to assist the CEO with portfolio selection and product development, ensuring alignment with pricing trends and product styles
- Generate leads to explore sales opportunities beyond the current region
- Support and promote the Baobab Wines Foundation and Giving Back Programme, contributing to youth charities across Africa
- Assist in organising and hosting incentive trips to South Africa
- Conduct market visits to the US to support distribution channels
- Serve as an effective company spokesperson, inspiring confidence and respect across distribution partners
- Collaborate with key accounts to expand Baobab Wines' distribution footprint
- Educate and train distribution sales representatives on product knowledge
- Partner with distribution management to understand their business, set mutual goals, and support them in achieving sales objectives
- Monitor distributor depletions and inventories, identifying opportunities and addressing challenges
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor's degree
- A minimum of 5 years’ sales experience in the wine industry, with preference for knowledge of South African wines
- Valid driver’s licence and ability to travel as needed
- Excellent computer skills (i.e. MS Office suite with intermediate to advanced MS Excel skills)
- Proficiency in managing budgets, profitability, and expenses
- Excellent written and verbal communication (English) and presentation skills, with a passion for teaching and continuous learning
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Proven ability to work independently and take initiative with minimal supervision
- Positive attitude with the ability to communicate enthusiasm effectively
- Adaptable to a fast-paced environment and able to manage change
- Strong work ethic, proactive mindset, and high level of personal accountability
- Team-oriented, with the drive to contribute to a growing start-up culture and a "get-it-done" attitude
- Ability to occasionally lift and carry a 19 kg case of wine
Please note, the following will be expected of the job incumbent:
- Time allocation: 80% remote sales activity based in South Africa, and 20% travel to the US
(up to 12 weeks per year) to support the market
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and overnight travel, as needed
- To have access to reliable internet connectivity
For general inquiries, please contact WorkWell Recruitment at recruitment@workwellpsych.co.za
Only shortlisted candidates are contacted.