An exciting opportunity exists for a results-driven Area Sales Manager to join our Community Channel within the Merchant Division in KwaZulu-Natal Inland.
The Area Sales Manager will take ownership of sales performance within the designated area, with responsibility for driving growth, expanding the merchant base, developing a high-performing sales team and delivering excellent customer service.
We are looking for a hands-on sales leader who can translate strategy into action, use performance insights to drive results and create a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Drive achievement of monthly and annual sales targets.
Lead, coach and manage Sales Executives to achieve individual and team performance objectives.
Drive new merchant placements, active traders and quality acquisitions.
Ensure Sales Executives maintain healthy and sustainable sales pipelines.
Monitor key sales activities, including cold calls, customer visits, applications, placements and trading.
Conduct regular field audits, one-on-one meetings and coaching sessions.
Identify and develop new territories, merchant opportunities and business growth opportunities.
Manage and reduce inactive and non-trading merchants.
Strengthen existing customer relationships while driving new business acquisition.
Analyse performance data and take timely corrective action where targets are not being achieved.
Collaborate with other departments and business units to address operational barriers and improve performance.
Drive improvements in sales efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Set clear performance expectations and promote a culture of accountability and high performance.
Support planning, staffing, budgeting and expense management.
Refine sales strategies and regional business plans using performance data and market trends.
Ensure adherence to Lesaka processes and operational requirements.
Minimum Requirements
2 - 3 years' client-facing sales experience.
Proven experience in sales leadership, team management or business development.
Demonstrated ability to achieve sales targets and deliver growth in a high-performance environment.
Experience in formal performance management and progressive discipline.
Ability to communicate effectively in English and at least one other African language.
A valid driver's licence is essential.
Computer literacy, particularly in Windows, Outlook and Excel.
Experience with CRM and sales analytics tools would be advantageous.
Experience or knowledge within fintech, banking or FMCG would be advantageous.
Qualifications
A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Sales, Marketing or a related field is preferred but not required.
Relevant training or certification in Sales Management, Leadership Development or a related discipline would be advantageous.
Key Competencies
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
Strong leadership and people-management capabilities.
A results-driven and performance-focused approach.
Effective coaching and team-development skills.
Strong communication and stakeholder-engagement skills.
Commercial awareness and sound decision-making.
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
Effective planning and organisational skills.
A proactive, self-motivated approach.
High levels of accountability, integrity and professionalism.
Strong attention to detail.
The ability to build collaborative working relationships.
Adaptability and a commitment to continuous improvement.