South Africa: SALES REPRESENTATIVE (HORECA) – EXTERNAL posted by Apex Hotel Supplies

About the Role

Apex Hotel Supplies is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Sales Representative to join our team, focusing on building strong relationships with key clients in the HORECA industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with key clients.
• Understand client objectives and challenges to deliver tailored solutions.
• Act as the primary point of contact, ensuring responsive and high-quality service.
• Develop and execute account plans aligned to client and company objectives.
• Identify growth opportunities, including upselling and cross-selling initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal teams to align solutions with client needs.
• Ensure effective communication between clients and internal departments.
• Provide regular updates on performance, projects, and market insights.
• Proactively identify and address potential challenges within accounts.
• Resolve client issues and conflicts in a timely and professional manner.
• Track and analyse account performance, providing actionable insights.
• Drive continuous improvement to enhance client satisfaction and retention.
• Stay informed on industry trends, competitors, and market developments.
• Use insights to position products and services effectively.
• Support contract management, renewals, and product listings with relevant teams.
• Provide accurate sales forecasts based on client trends and demand.

Requirements

• Diploma or degree in Sales, Marketing, Hospitality, or Business Management is advantageous.
• 2–5 years’ external sales experience, preferably within FMCG, hospitality, or food service, managing HORECA clients.
• Strong client relationship management skills with the ability to develop and maintain long-term partnerships with hotels, restaurants, caterers, and institutional clients.
• Solid understanding of HORECA operations, including product application, menu cycles, and supply chain requirements.
• Strong negotiation and selling skills with a proven ability to close deals and identify upselling and cross-selling opportunities.
• Proficiency in CRM systems, order management tools, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) for reporting and account tracking.
• Strong communication, planning, and organisational skills with effective territory management, time management, and problem-solving ability.
• Valid drivers license.

Salary & Benefits

Basic Salary + Attractive Commission Scheme