An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced External Sales Consultant to join a reputable business serving the construction and building materials market. The successful candidate will take ownership of the KZN territory, with a strong focus on developing new business, growing existing accounts, and strengthening relationships with retail hardware merchants. Candidates with proven timber sales experience, an established KZN customer network, and a proactive, results-driven approach will be well suited to this role.
Key Responsibilities:
Manage a portfolio of existing customers while actively identifying and pursuing new business opportunities
Conduct regular customer visits and sales calls across the KZN territory
Develop and maintain strong, long-term relationships with retail hardware merchants and other customers
Drive sales growth and achieve agreed turnover and profitability targets
Identify opportunities to expand product ranges and increase sales across existing accounts
Introduce and negotiate new product ranging opportunities with customers
Develop promotional initiatives with retailers to support sales and product movement
Work closely with internal teams, including logistics, marketing, and sales, to ensure a seamless customer experience
Process customer orders and follow up on outstanding requirements to ensure efficient service delivery
Review sales information and market trends to identify potential growth opportunities
Monitor competitor activity and provide relevant market feedback to management
Assist customers with product knowledge and coordinate in-store training for retail staff where required
Support the effective sell-through of surplus, slow-moving, or aged stock
Represent the company at relevant trade shows, exhibitions, and industry events
Maintain accurate sales records, reports, correspondence, and other required administration
Provide regular updates to management regarding territory performance, customer developments, and business opportunities
Travel extensively throughout KZN, with occasional overnight stays required
Requirements:
5 - 10 years' proven external sales experience, preferably within the timber or related industry
Established relationships with retail hardware merchants across KZN
Demonstrated track record of managing and developing a sales territory
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
Strong customer relationship management and business development abilities
Highly motivated, organised, and target-driven
Entrepreneurial and commercially minded
Strong sense of accountability and a proactive approach to achieving results
Positive, energetic, and adaptable personality
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team
Comfortable working in a fast-paced and evolving environment
Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
Own reliable vehicle + valid driver's licence and willingness to travel extensively throughout the territory
Previous experience selling timber, building materials, or related construction products is ideal
Relevant tertiary qualification in Sales, Marketing, or a related field is advantageous