Vrede en Lust is seeking a highly motivated and dynamic Trade Sales Manager to lead our sales team. The ideal candidate should possess national trade sales experience, with international exposure being a significant advantage. With a minimum of 5-10 years of experience in the South African wine industry, the Trade Sales Manager will play a pivotal role in driving our brand's growth and success.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES include the following.
- Establish wine sales goals to ensure share of market and profitability of products and/or services.
- Develop and execute wine sale plans and programs, both short and long term, to ensure the profit growth and expansion of company products and/or services both domestically and in the export markets.
- Manage and assist Sales representatives and 3rd party resellers to reach sales targets.
- To monitor and manage the Vrede en Lust sales representatives’ out puts and make sure that they strive to reach targets . To monitor sales of current 3rd party resellers and strive to expand sales areas if need be. To take management action as need be.
- Research, analyse, and monitor financial, technological, and demographic factors so that market opportunities may be capitalized on and the effects of competitive activity may be minimized.
- Develop and recommend pricing strategy for the organization which will result in the greatest share of the market over the long run.
- Oversee and co-ordinate the activities of the regional sales representatives, manage key sales accounts, assist with development of export opportunities in conjunction with managing partner.
- Achieve satisfactory profit/loss ratio and share of market performance in relation to pre-set standards and to general and specific trends within the industry and the economy.
- Ensure effective control of marketing results and that corrective action takes place to achieve of marketing objectives within designated budgets.
- Evaluate market reactions to advertising programs, merchandising policy, and product packaging and formulation to ensure the timely adjustment of marketing strategy and plans to meet changing market and competitive conditions.
Requirements:
- A passion for wine and a deep understanding of the wine industry.
- Proven success as a Trade Sales Manager in the wine industry.
- Extensive knowledge of the wine market.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and leadership skills.
- A strong focus on achieving results and maintaining profit margins.
- A purpose-driven mindset and a desire for continuous improvement.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team.
- Willingness to travel as required, both domestically and internationally.
- A relevant tertiary qualification in sales, marketing, or business.
- Traceable references.
- Ability to work from the Vrede en Lust office, Simondium, Paarl.
Perks and Benefits:
- Competitive salary with monthly, target based commission.
If you are passionate about wine, have a track record of success in trade sales, and are ready to take on a leadership role in a dynamic and growing winery, we invite you to apply for the Trade Sales Manager position at Vrede en Lust Wines. Join our team and help us continue our tradition of excellence in the wine industry.
To apply, please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, and references to Etienne Buys at etienne@vnl.co.za.
Vrede en Lust Wines is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds to apply. We look forward to receiving your application!