Job Description

Our client in the Packaging Industry is looking for a Senior Business Development Manager that has automotive experience to join their team in Pretoria, Centurion.
Responsibilities

• Deliver an exceptional level of service to both existing and prospective customers.
• Assist customers in understanding company products and identify tailored solutions to meet their needs while maintaining customer satisfaction.
• Generate sales opportunities and implement strategies for the company's automotive technology solutions.
• Engage in consultative selling with a business solutions approach.
• Prospect and secure new clients to achieve annual sales targets.
• Identify and capitalize on returnable packaging supply opportunities.
• Develop opportunities with automotive OEMs and their supplier base.
• Understand customer needs and effectively communicate them to internal teams to enhance solution adoption and development.
• Achieve targets as per the annual sales budget.
• Conduct market research to identify qualified leads and execute strategic sales approaches.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with multiple stakeholders.
• Prepare customized bid proposals and conduct bid presentations.
• Contribute to marketing materials, customer RFI responses, proposals, and quotations.
• Identify and qualify potential leads to build a strong sales pipeline through networking, conferences, and industry events.
• Collaborate with the product development team to provide market feedback and ensure continuous improvement of digital solutions.
• Stay informed about the company's product and service offerings, as well as industry developments, to enhance customer outcomes.
• Work closely with key account management and internal teams to implement best practices for customer solutions.
• Liaise regularly with large key customers.
• Prepare and report on monthly sales figures, including variance analysis.
• Ensure timely follow-up and ongoing sales relationship management with clients in the automotive sector.
• Supervise and manage resources effectively to meet customer delivery requirements.
• Provide product expertise and support within the team.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the business.
• Facilitate resolution of customer complaints by coordinating with relevant departments.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to ensure optimal customer satisfaction.
• Drive sales and foster long-term partnerships with clients.
• Identify opportunities for product improvements or new solutions by staying updated on industry trends, market activities, and competitor strategies.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending workshops, exhibitions, trade shows, and industry events, as well as reviewing relevant publications and networking with industry professionals.

• A relevant tertiary qualification to support the job requirements.
• At least five (5) years of industry sales experience, with a minimum of three (3) years in the automotive supply chain sector.
• At least five (5) years of experience in business development, product management, strategic development, or key account management within a technology-based business in the automotive industry.
• Practical experience in value-based selling.
• Sound understanding of technologies such as web and mobile applications, handheld scanners with RFID/barcode readers, BTLE devices, fixed RFID readers/antennas, IoT instruments, GPS tracking devices, and custom factory/WMS data interface systems.

• Strong ability and willingness to identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Willingness to travel nationally as required.
• Proven track record of closing successful deals and exceeding sales targets.
• Ability to analyse customer requirements and position tailored solutions that demonstrate the value of company offerings.
• Strong proposal writing and reporting skills.
• Ability to manage multiple sales projects effectively.
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Self-motivated, competitive, confident, and persuasive.
• Excellent presentation skills.
• Strong customer orientation and ability to build and maintain relationships.
• Proven ability to negotiate and close deals efficiently.
• Creativity and a passion for sales.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Resilient, adaptable, and solution-driven mindset.
• Strong problem-solving, team-building, planning, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to motivate and inspire colleagues.
• Target-driven with a positive, results-oriented attitude.