Commercial Manager; Beverages

Position: Commercial Manager (Beverages)
Location: Somerset West

My client, a start-up based in Grabouw area, with offices in Somerset West, specialises in the development and manufacturing of cold-pressed fresh fruit juices. Due to their current expansion, they have a vacancy for a Commercial Manager. This position will be responsible for identifying and establishing new markets for their products (bulk and ready to drink juices), driving strategic growth, and building long-term customer relationships.

This role requires a blend of market research, business development, sales and strategic planning expertise to create and execute a roadmap for market entry and expansion.

Key Performance Areas:

Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement national and international sales strategies to drive business growth.
- Align area marketing initiatives with national and international objectives to enhance customer engagement.

Sales & Performance Management
- Oversee pricing, promotions, and profitability to optimize sales operations.
- Monitor sales performance, analyse trends, and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Establish performance metrics and ensure achievement of company sales targets.

Market & Business Development
- Conduct market analysis to identify growth opportunities and target markets.
- Launch new products and enhance existing offerings based on market needs.
- Lead promotional campaigns and assess their impact on sales and brand equity.

Team Future Development
- Build sales and marketing team to exceed goals.
- Recruit, onboard, and develop staff through coaching and performance reviews.

Customer & Account Management
- Acquire new customers and manage key accounts effectively.
- Address and resolve customer issues promptly and professionally.
- Recommend tailored products/services to meet client needs.

Operational & Financial Oversight
- Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure operational efficiency.
- Manage budgets, forecast financial targets, and plan for profitability.
- Maintain customer financial records and oversee account adjustments.
- Track and manage client equipment such as shop coolers to make sure it suitable for our product.

Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Marketing, Business Administration, Food Science, Food Technology or a related field.
- Proven success in sales and marketing roles within the beverage and FMCG sectors.
- In-depth knowledge of the juice industry, particularly Not-From-Concentrate (NFC) juice.
- Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
- Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams
- Experience in developing and executing sales and marketing strategies
- Previous experience in a similar role will be advantageous