National Sales Manager: Higher Education and Tvet

**Oxford University Press Southern Africa**

Oxford University Press advances knowledge and learning of all kinds, from a child reading their first words to a researcher expanding the frontiers of their field. Our work is constantly evolving, and the possibilities are endless. We strive to help more and more people around the world achieve their potential.

Oxford University Press is a department of the University of Oxford. It is our mission to further the University's objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide.

**National Sales Manager: Higher Education and TVET**

**(Permanent position)**

Oxford University Press is looking for a National Sales Manager to Oversee the creation and implementation of Higher Education and TVET sales strategy and activities in line with market needs, product focus and timelines to increase sales and market share in the Southern African market.

The National Sales Manager will be reporting to the Sales Director. This post is based in Cape Town.

**Principal Accountabilities**:

- Sales Strategy Development: Develop and implement a comprehensive sales strategy aligned with the company's goals and objectives. This involves analyzing market trends, identifying new sales opportunities, and defining target markets and customer segments.
- Team Management: Recruit, train, motivate, and manage a team of sales professionals. Set sales targets, monitor individual and team performance, provide guidance, and support, and conduct regular performance reviews.
- Sales Forecasting and Planning: Develop sales forecasts and budgets based on market trends, historical data, and industry analysis. Plan and allocate resources effectively to meet sales targets and maximize revenue.
- Key Account Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients and accounts. Collaborate with the marketing team to identify and leverage cross-selling and upselling opportunities. Address customer needs and concerns, negotiate contracts, and ensure customer satisfaction.
- Market Research and Analysis: Stay updated on industry trends, market dynamics, and competitor activities. Conduct market research and analysis to identify customer needs, preferences, and market gaps. Use this information to develop effective sales strategies and make informed business decisions.
- Sales Performance Monitoring and Reporting: Monitor sales performance against targets and KPIs. Analyze sales data, track market share, and identify areas for improvement. Prepare regular sales reports and presentations for senior management, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.
- Sales Training and Development: Provide ongoing training, coaching, and professional development opportunities to the sales team. Equip them with product knowledge, sales techniques, negotiation skills, and market insights to enhance their performance and productivity.
- Collaboration with Other Departments: Collaborate closely with marketing, editorial, and production departments to ensure seamless coordination and alignment of sales strategies with product development, promotion, and distribution activities.
- Pricing and Contract Negotiation: Set pricing strategies and policies in coordination with senior management and finance teams. Lead contract negotiations with clients, ensuring favorable terms and conditions while maximizing revenue and profitability.
- Sales Performance Analysis: Analyze sales data and metrics to identify trends, opportunities, and areas of improvement. Develop strategies to optimize sales processes, improve customer retention, and increase customer lifetime value.
- Trade Shows and Conferences: Represent the company at industry trade shows, conferences, and events. Network with potential clients, stay updated on industry developments, and identify new business opportunities.
- Continuously optimize and customize the CRM system to meet specific needs of the sales team and workflows.

**Qualifications and Experience**
- Relevant working experience
- Relevant degree appropriate for Education, Marketing, or anything equivalent
- Strong business and commercial acumen
- Experience in formulating and executing winning strategies
- Strong negotiation skills and problem solving
- Able to maintain and foster high level business relationships
- Demonstrate capacity to work across functional areas to deliver results
- Ability to manage and provide leadership to staff
- Experience in publishing environment including both print and digital
- Excellent interpersonal, organisational, analytical, and written and verbal communication skills
- Business development experience
- Experience in data analytics and CRM

**Attributes**:

- Action and delivery oriented
- Shows resilience and commitment
- Problem solver
- Positive attitude
- Deadline-driven
- Presentation skills
- Displays ethical behaviour
- Supports teamwork and empowers others to achieve their objectives

**Oxford Offers t