Irrigation Market Development Manager

Agrinet, a wholesale supplier and distributor of a wide range of products that cater to the hardware retail, industrial and irrigation markets in Africa is looking for Irrigation Market Development Manager to Spearhead Agrinet's irrigation growth strategy, focusing on expanding market share, optimising product portfolios, and achieving sustainable profitability across South Africa and neighbouring markets. The role requires a strategic leader with deep irrigation sector expertise, proven commercial acumen, and the ability to align cross-functional teams to deliver measurable growth.

Market Development and Growth Strategy

• Develop a comprehensive growth plan for the irrigation sector that aligns with Agrinet's broader commercial objectives.
• Conduct in-depth industry research to identify new opportunities in farming, horticulture, landscaping, and infrastructure projects.
• Evaluate competitor performance and identify potential threats and gaps in the market to position Agrinet as a leading choice.
• Define and implement pricing models that support profitability while remaining competitive.
• Collaborate with internal teams to simplify and streamline the irrigation product range, ensuring it remains relevant to client requirements.
• Maintain ongoing engagement with irrigation associations and professional bodies to keep Agrinet at the forefront of industry standards.

Sales and Revenue Achievement

• Translate company revenue objectives into clear sales targets for the irrigation portfolio.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with distributors, retailers, and direct clients to secure continued sales growth.
• Implement structured account management practices that ensure retention and expansion of key clients.
• Monitor sales trends across all irrigation categories and implement corrective actions when targets are not met.
• Lead negotiations with clients and partners to secure long-term agreements that strengthen Agrinet's presence.
• Collaborate with finance teams to ensure accurate forecasting and budget alignment.

Team Leadership and Capability Development

• Provide clear leadership to the technical and specialist irrigation sales team by defining roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching sessions, and mentorship to improve individual and team capability.
• Identify training needs within the team and create structured learning opportunities that enhance technical expertise.
• Design and deliver product training sessions to both internal staff and external clients to promote correct application of irrigation solutions.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation within the sales force. Ensure succession planning by developing future leaders within the team.

Data-Driven Insights and Reporting

• Collect and analyse sales and client data to produce meaningful insights that inform strategy and execution.
• Prepare comprehensive monthly and quarterly reports for senior management with actionable recommendations.
• Use customer relationship management tools to monitor performance and identify opportunities for improved client engagement.
• Benchmark Agrinet's irrigation performance against competitor activity to support decision-making.
• Monitor trends in input costs and currency impacts that affect profitability and adapt strategies accordingly.
• Share insights with cross-functional teams to enable data-driven planning and prioritisation.

Innovation, Technology and Process Improvement

• Identify and evaluate new irrigation technologies that can be added to the Agrinet portfolio to strengthen competitiveness.
• Work with procurement and logistics teams to ensure efficient supply chain processes and reduce delays.
• Implement best practice methods in irrigation sales management that improve productivity and client outcomes.
• Lead product introduction projects by coordinating with suppliers, internal departments, and clients.
• Develop initiatives that simplify sales processes and increase efficiency for both the sales team and distribution partners.
• Recommend operational improvements that reduce cost while maintaining product and service quality.

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Sales Management, Business Administration, Irrigation Science (SABI), Agricultural Engineering, or a related field. Relevant certification or accreditation in irrigation system design, installation, or water management is preferred.

Requirements: At least 5 years in a senior leadership or management role overseeing a national or regional sales team. Demonstrated success in developing and executing sales strategies in agricultural, irrigation, or allied industries.

Closing date: 31 October 2025

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• We are committed to transformation through the appointment of persons from designated groups and potential candidates from these groups will enjoy preference.
• Kindly note that a consumer credit record will be requested in respect of all appointments which involve dealing with cash or finances.
• Should we not have contacted you within six weeks of the closing date, you may assume that your application has been unsuccessful.