General Manager

Job title: General manager (sales)

Area: Langlaagte, Johannesburg South

Industry: Manufacturing

Salary / CTC: Market-related (depending on current earnings, qualifications, and experience)

Report to: CEO / board of directors

Job summary:

The general manager will oversee the overall operations of the manufacturing company, ensuring efficiency in production, team management, and market penetration. While industry-specific experience is not required, the candidate must have a strong background in managing teams within a manufacturing environment, with experience in both local and export markets. The role involves strategic leadership, operational management, and process optimisation.

Key responsibilities:

Team leadership and management:

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of sales representatives and cross-functional teams (production, logistics, etc.) to meet and exceed sales and operational targets.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, provide coaching, and support individual and team development.
• Foster a positive, high-performance culture across the organisation, encouraging collaboration and alignment with company goals.
• Use technical expertise to provide product knowledge and training to the sales team and other departments.

Sales strategy and planning:

• Develop and implement sales strategies to drive growth in local and international markets.
• Collaborate with senior management to align sales strategies with overall company objectives.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and customer feedback to refine sales tactics and increase market penetration.
• Manage export activities and implement strategies to expand into new markets, particularly in the SADC region.

Analytical and reporting:

• Analyse sales data and operational performance to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Prepare and present detailed sales and business performance reports to senior management and the board.
• Utilise CRM software and other tools to track sales and operational performance, ensuring accurate reporting.

Process implementation and optimisation:

• Design and implement efficient sales and business processes to streamline operations and improve productivity.
• Ensure that all teams adhere to company policies, manufacturing standards, and safety regulations.
• Continuously review and improve processes to enhance customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

Customer relationship management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, partners, and stakeholders.
• Ensure excellent customer service delivery by resolving issues and complaints promptly and professionally.

Operational management:

• Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure smooth production, logistics, and service delivery.
• Work closely with various departments to ensure business objectives and KPIs are met.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance.

Financial oversight:

• Collaborate with the finance department to manage budgets, monitor financial performance, and control costs.
• Prepare regular financial reports and forecasts to ensure profitability and alignment with strategic goals.

Strategic planning:

• Develop and execute long-term strategic plans to achieve company objectives.
• Identify growth opportunities and new business ventures to expand market share.
• Stay informed on industry trends and market conditions to maintain a competitive edge.

Qualifications and experience:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field. An MBA or equivalent is a plus.

Experience:

• Minimum of seven years of experience in sales management or a general management role within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in managing local and export markets, particularly in the SADC region.
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.
• Experience in managing cross-functional teams and implementing business and sales processes.

Skills and competencies:

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to manage and inspire multiple departments.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with experience in sales data analysis and reporting.
• Proficient in CRM software and other business tools.
• Ability to implement and refine processes for operational and sales efficiency.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Financial acumen to manage budgets and ensure business profitability.

Personal attributes:

• Results-oriented, proactive, and able to drive performance improvements.
• Strong decision-making and strategic thinking abilities.
• Adaptable and capable of managing change in a fast-paced environment.

Posted on 18 Sep 12:34, Closing date 17 Nov