Area Sales Manager (Nakuru) at Gap Recruitment Services Limited

Job Description:

As an Area Sales Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing and managing the sales operations within the Nakuru region. You will lead a team of sales executives, drive business growth, and ensure the availability of our clients products across general trade outlets. You will play a strategic role in achieving sales targets, developing new business, and enhancing customer relationships. This position requires leadership, market knowledge, and a strong results-driven attitude.

Key Responsibilities:

Sales Strategy & Execution:

• Develop and implement effective sales strategies to achieve regional sales targets for cooking oil and soap products.
• Lead the sales team in driving product distribution and increasing market penetration across Nakuru.
• Identify new business opportunities, create action plans, and take ownership of expanding the customer base in the region.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Supervise, mentor, and motivate a team of Field Sales Executives to achieve individual and team targets.
• Provide training and guidance to ensure the sales team is equipped with the necessary skills and product knowledge to succeed.
• Conduct performance evaluations and assist in setting individual goals for sales representatives.

Customer Relationship Management:

• Establish and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key customers, including wholesalers, retailers, and distributors.
• Ensure customer satisfaction by addressing concerns promptly and ensuring the timely delivery of products.
• Develop customer loyalty programs and execute customer retention strategies.

Market Expansion & Coverage:

• Ensure that all retail outlets and distributors in the region are well-stocked with products and follow company merchandising guidelines.
• Conduct regular market visits to monitor competitor activity, assess product placement, and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
• Identify and explore new sales channels to maximize market coverage and revenue growth.

Sales Reporting & Analysis:

• Monitor sales performance in the region and provide regular reports to senior management on progress towards targets.
• Analyze sales data, market trends, and customer feedback to adjust strategies and optimize sales performance.
• Review and adjust sales forecasts regularly to ensure accurate business planning.

Product Promotion & Branding:

• Ensure consistent and impactful promotion of the company's products in the region.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to implement and execute regional promotional campaigns and sales initiatives.

Key Requirements:

• A degree or diploma in Sales, Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Proven experience as a Sales Manager or Area Sales Manager in the FMCG industry, with a focus on general trade or similar sectors.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in a sales management role, including managing a team.
• Experience in managing sales across multiple regions or territories is a plus.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to motivate and guide a sales team.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think strategically, develop sales plans, and execute them effectively.
• Strong negotiation and problem-solving abilities.
• Analytical skills to interpret sales data and market trends.
• Results-oriented with a strong drive to meet and exceed targets.
• Familiarity with the Nakuru market and its retail landscape is an advantage.