Key Account Manager

Key Account Manager (Food service), Cape Town

This role is designed for a professional who excels at driving sustainable sales growth, strengthening long-term customer relationships, and ensuring service excellence across a diverse portfolio of accounts.

As a primary link between our operations and the customer, you will be responsible for the health and expansion of our key food service accounts. You will report to the Sales Manager, focusing on high-level strategy and the tactical execution of growth plans to ensure we remain a market leader in the food industry.

Requirements

To excel in this position, you must bring a blend of analytical rigor and interpersonal savvy. Our ideal candidate possesses:

• Experience:
  
  3–5 years of proven experience in FMCG Key Account Management.
• Industry Knowledge: A strong understanding of the food service channel is highly advantageous.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficiency in SAP or similar ERP systems, along with advanced Microsoft Excel skills for data analysis.
• Soft Skills:
  
  Exceptional negotiation, relationship management, and presentation skills.
• Mobility: A valid driver's license and a willingness to travel locally to visit client sites and regional hubs.

Key Responsibilities

• Portfolio Management & Growth:
  Manage, retain, and grow a portfolio of key food service accounts. You will be expected to identify new business opportunities while deepening existing partnerships to achieve ambitious sales, margin, and profitability targets.
• Strategic Planning:
  Develop and implement comprehensive account growth plans. This involves aligning our product offerings with client needs and navigating complex supply chain requirements.
• Commercial Negotiation:
  Lead high-stakes negotiations regarding pricing structures, promotional calendars, and product listings to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Operational Excellence:
  Coordinate closely with logistics and production teams to ensure effective stock management, accurate forecasting, and seamless service delivery.
• Market Intelligence:
  Monitor and analyze market trends and competitor activity. You will translate these insights into actionable strategies to maintain a competitive edge.
• Leadership &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Provide guidance and support to sales representatives where applicable, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.