Job Description

Identify and open new accounts in the pet speciality sector includingindependent, franchise and corporate brick & mortar stores (veterinarypractice, vet shop, pet shop) but not excluding professionals (groomers,trainers, behaviourists, breeders etc).



Build and maintain a network of sources from which to identify new salesleads.



Implement effective sales techniques to ensure the successful launch,maintenance and growth of product portfolio.



Service all customers (potential, existing and previous), alerting them of newproducts, promotions and enhancements as well as ongoing product supportthrough a monthly call cycle program.



Identify and understand product or service needs with customers includingend-user, retailers and wholesalers; identify and suggest products andservice to meet those needs



Ensure customer satisfaction through ongoing communication andrelationship management, addressing all customer queries, post-salecomplaints, orders and stock control.



Actively follow and participate in all levels of customers' business, includingsocial media channels, networking groups, and industry events.



Ensure that each product range is displayed effectively in store to captureattention and encourage sales as well as assist with display concepts



Track wholesaler stock holding to ensure supply and demand.



Demonstrate the functions and utility of products to customers througheffective product training and demonstrations including both wholesaler andretailer accounts.



Responsible for upskilling in the Company's product range as well as that ofcompetitors. This includes understanding key points of differentiation, pricingstrategies, and product benefits to effectively communicate value to clientsand tailor solutions to their needs.

Identify and analyse reasons for slow sales:

Out-of-stock issues and recommend product alternatives to customers



Economic downturn impacts and educate customers on the differencesbetween premium quality products versus cheaper non-brand lines toaddress price sensitivity.



Pricing strategies of individual retailers that may affect sales and providesuggestions for competitive positioning.



Merchandising of in-store stocks to ensure maximum visibility andengagement.



Submit daily call reports detailing sales activities including calls, marketactivity, customer feedback, sales progress



Develop and submit a detailed monthly call planner to outline scheduled visitsand communications with all clients. The planner should ensure that eachclient is seen regularly, to foster meaningful and trustworthy relationships.



Client Prioritization - Identify key clients and prioritize them based onfactors such as sales volume, potential for growth, and any specific needsthey may have. Ensure that high-priority clients receive more frequent



Visit Objectives - Set clear objectives for each client meeting, whether todiscuss new products, promotions, gather feedback, resolve issues, or



explore opportunities for upselling and cross-selling.



Follow-up Actions - Document follow-up actions from previous meetingsto ensure continuity in communication. Address any unresolved issuesand provide updates on previously discussed topics.



Analyse monthly sales figures and manage detailed reports including targets,product sales and customer activities.



Meet and exceed monthly/quarterly targets



Propose promotions and specials to turn over slower selling stock based onSOH reports.



Assess monthly sales trends and report on sales activities based onpromotions, as well as increase and decline in sales (possible reason andcause)



Identify customers/groups/franchisees where group discounts/rebates can bepotentially offered to encourage further sales.



Product Consignment Agreements - Ensure accurate records are maintainedconcerning customers who have agreed to hold and sell consignment stocks,as well as top up, invoicing and collection of payments due.



Maintain accurate and up to date credit/return reports for individual supplier/brands.



Prepare and participate in twice weekly management meetings and feedbacksessions



Manage rotation of Company samples as well as ensure sufficient source ofnecessary hard copy literature and data sheets



Identify both direct and indirect competitors, evaluate their strategies todetermine their strengths and weaknesses relative to those of our ownproduct and service. Choose and implement effective strategies that willcreate a competitive advantage.



Establish gaps in the marketplace where there might be a niche or demandfor specific products which either has a weak product offering or has yet beenestablished.



Participate in in-store promotional activities as and when required outside ofregular business hours



Assist and attend company events as and when required



Familiarise and adhere to all company policies



Perform other duties as assigned.



Matric / Grade 12



A certificate or diploma in sales, marketing, merchandising, or a related field is preferred but not mandatory.



Minimum 5 years' experience in field sales in the FMCG sector and/or 2 years field sales experience in the Pet speciality industry.



Any prior experience in the pet industryor working with pet-related products is highly advantageous.



A genuine love for animals or being a pet lover is essential,l given the nature of the industry.



Flexibility to travel is essential, as the role involves visiting and servicing multiple practices and stores across the Western and Eastern Cape in a field sales capacity.



Proficiency in MS Office

Bilingual:

English and Afrikaans



Valid driver's license with own reliable transport



Good written and verbal communication skills



Flexible to work outside regular business hours for in-store promotions or events.



Strong sales, communication, and organisational skills; self-motivated, customer-focused, quick to learn, and a reliable team player



Between 3 - 5 Years