Re-advertisement: Deputy Sales & Marketing Manager – French-speaking Candidates at Surge Energy

Job Specification/Purpose: 

The Deputy Sales & Marketing Manager will work closely with the Head of Sales & Marketing to develop and execute sales strategies, lead day-to-day sales operations, manage key accounts, and help build a high-performing sales team. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines strategic support with operational delivery in the LPG cylinder manufacturing and revalidation sector.

• Assist in developing and implementing sales strategies to meet and exceed revenue targets.
• Support market research and analysis to identify new business opportunities, customer needs, and industry trends.
• Contribute to sales budgets, forecasts, and performance reporting; prepare accurate data and insights for the Head of Department.
• Support the Head of Sales & Marketing in leading, mentoring, and developing the sales team.
• Identify training needs and assist in organising development programmes for the sales team.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, distributors, and partners.
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction through effective account management and responsive support.
• Address customer concerns promptly and escalate complex issues appropriately.

Sales Operations

• Any other activities/ tasks assigned by the line manager to meet company goals and objectives. 
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities to expand the customer base and increase market share.
• Maintain and grow a robust pipeline of prospective clients and projects.
• Support negotiation of contracts and agreements with key accounts and strategic partners (under guidance of the Head of Sales & Marketing).
• Oversee day-to-day sales operations including order processing, pricing coordination, and contract management.
• Collaborate closely with production and supply chain teams to ensure timely delivery and order fulfilment.
• Monitor sales performance metrics and KPIs; recommend and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Monitor debtors weekly and follow up payments
• Issue tenders timely with support of head of division 
• Maintain records of key areas and share to the reporting line on time
• Stay updated on industry trends, competitor activities, and regulatory developments affecting the LPG cylinder market.
• Provide timely insights and information to the Head of Sales & Marketing to support strategic decision-making.
• Conduct timely research and surveys as per department head guidance 

Requirements / Person Specification

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Sales and Marketing, Business Administration, Commerce, Marketing, or a related field.
• Professional qualification in Sales, Marketing, Business Management, or a related discipline will be an added advantage.
• Minimum 5–7 years relevant experience in sales and business development, preferably within manufacturing, LPG, energy, industrial products, or a related sector.
• Demonstrated experience in supervising or leading a sales team.
• Proven experience in business development, key account management, customer relationship management, and achievement of sales targets.
• Good understanding of sales reporting, forecasting, market analysis, and performance management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and sales/CRM systems.
• Fluency in French is mandatory. The successful candidate must be able to communicate effectively in both written and spoken French.
• Strong proficiency in English, both written and spoken.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team-development skills.
• Excellent negotiation, relationship-building, and customer management abilities.
• Analytical mindset with experience in sales forecasting, budgeting, and KPI monitoring.
• Good understanding of market research and competitive intelligence.
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to work cross-functionally with production and supply chain.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel) and CRM systems; experience with sales performance tools is an advantage.
• Fluent French communication – mandatory
• High integrity, resilience, and results orientation.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker who is also comfortable with hands-on execution.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work with limited supervision while supporting the Head of Department.
• Customer-focused with a collaborative approach.
• Adaptable and able to thrive in a dynamic manufacturing environment.