National Sales Manager - Sporting Goods

About the Role
Our client, a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance sporting goods, is seeking an accomplished and strategic National Sales Manager to drive sales growth and expand market share across South Africa. This pivotal role will be based in the Kimberley, Northern Cape region and will involve leading a national sales team, developing effective sales strategies, and nurturing key client relationships within the sporting retail and professional sports sectors. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the sporting goods market, a proven track record in sales leadership, and exceptional negotiation skills. This Hybrid role requires significant travel to oversee sales activities across the country, while allowing for strategic planning and administrative tasks to be managed remotely or from a home base in the Kimberley area.Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement a comprehensive national sales strategy to achieve ambitious sales targets and market penetration goals.Lead, motivate, and manage a team of regional sales representatives, providing training, coaching, and performance evaluations.Cultivate and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key accounts, including major sporting retailers, distributors, and professional sports organizations.Analyze sales data and market trends to identify new business opportunities and develop targeted sales initiatives.Oversee the sales budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and maximizing return on investment.Collaborate closely with the marketing and product development teams to ensure alignment between sales efforts and brand strategy.Prepare and deliver compelling sales presentations and proposals to prospective and existing clients.Monitor competitor activities and market dynamics, adapting sales strategies as needed.Ensure effective management of sales territories and customer service levels.Report regularly on sales performance, market insights, and strategic recommendations to senior management.Requirements
A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales Management, or a related field.A minimum of 7 years of progressive sales experience, with at least 3-4 years in a sales management role, preferably within the sporting goods or related consumer goods industry.Demonstrated success in achieving and exceeding national sales targets in a competitive market.Proven experience in leading and developing sales teams.Excellent understanding of sales processes, channel management, and key account management principles.Strong negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.Proficiency in CRM software (e.G., Salesforce) and sales analytics tools.Ability to travel extensively nationally (up to 50% of the time).Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Kimberley, Northern Cape, with flexibility for Hybrid work.Benefits
Our client offers a highly competitive base salary, coupled with an attractive commission and bonus structure based on individual and team performance.The benefits package includes comprehensive medical aid, a retirement annuity fund, and generous staff discounts on products.Opportunities for continuous professional development, including sales training programs and industry events, are provided.The Hybrid work model allows for effective management of national responsibilities with a degree of flexibility.
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