Sales Representative

**Purpose of the Job**:
The Sales Representative is responsible for driving sales growth by managing and developing a portfolio of customers within the hospitality and catering industries (hotels, restaurants, cafes, catering companies, lodges, guesthouses, etc.). This role involves prospecting, relationship management, and revenue generation through consultative selling of food and beverage products. The representative must achieve sales targets, ensure customer satisfaction, and contribute to the company’s overall growth strategy.

This role is responsible for managing and growing sales within the Cape Town CBD and Atlantic Seaboard areas.

**_ Our Group and all its operating companies are committed to creating, embracing, and preserving a diverse workplace that values the unique talents, perspectives, backgrounds, and abilities that enrich our organisation. A place where everyone matters and feels included._**

**Job Objectives**:
**Sales & Business Development**
- Identify, target, and acquire new business accounts within the hospitality and catering sectors. (Sales Pipeline)
- Maintain and grow existing customer accounts by understanding their needs and providing tailored product solutions.
- Promote new products, bulk deals, and special promotions to customers.
- Develop and implement a strategic sales plan to achieve and exceed monthly and annual sales and gross margin targets.
- Maintain call cycles to ensure regular engagement with all customers, balancing existing account management, new business development, and follow-ups to maximize sales opportunities within the assigned territory.

**Customer Relationship Management**
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with chefs, procurement managers, food & beverage managers, and business owners.
- Conduct regular face-to-face meetings, site visits, and product presentations.
- Provide customers with market insights, product recommendations, and menu solutions.
- Resolve customer complaints and ensure high levels of customer service and satisfaction.

**Sales Performance & Reporting**
- Monitor and analyse sales performance (daily, monthly, YTD) and take action to improve results.
- Prepare and present sales reports, including territory performance, customer trends, and competitor activity in sales meetings.
- Meet sales performance KPIs, including revenue, margin, new account openings, and customer retention.

**Product Knowledge & Market Insights**
- Stay updated on food and beverage industry trends, pricing, competitor activity, and market demands.
- Work closely with suppliers and internal teams to ensure product availability, pricing accuracy, and order fulfillment.
- Conduct product demonstrations and tastings to showcase the value and quality of offerings.

**Order Management & Logistics Coordination**
- Monitor stock levels and advise customers on availability, substitutions, and special-order options.
- Assist in managing customer credit terms, ensuring payments are collected within agreed timelines.

**Qualifications**:
**Essential**
- Senior Certificate

**Desirable**
- Diploma/Degree in Sales, Marketing, Business Administration, or Hospitality Management

**Experience**:
**Essential**
- 3-5 years B2B sales experience in the foodservice, hospitality, or catering industries.
- Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to travel within the assigned sales territory.

**Desirable**
- Experience in distributing food & beverage products.

**Knowledge and Skills**:

- **Sales & Negotiation Skills—**Ability to influence and close deals confidently.
- **Hospitality Industry Knowledge—**Understanding of food & beverage trends, procurement, and menu planning.
- **Customer Service Orientation—**Ability to build strong relationships and provide tailored solutions.
- **Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills**—Ability to analyse customer needs and offer relevant products.
- **Strong Communication Skills—**Ability to engage effectively with customers and internal teams.
- **Time Management & Self-Motivation—**Ability to work independently while meeting sales goals.
- **Resilience & Adaptability—**Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment.