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General Manager – Sales

Cape Bag Group

Cape Town, South Africa

Are you a seasoned, hands-on Sales Leader ready to drive revenue across a leading South African packaging manufacturing group?
Cape Bag Group, a leading manufacturer and distributor of essential packaging products, is seeking a results-driven General Manager for Sales to oversee the strategy and execution for our entire group, including the Cape Bag, Cape Bulk Bags, and Cape Twines & Packaging divisions.
This isn't a desk job. We need an industry expert who will actively maintain key client relationships, mentor the Sales Team, and ensure our sales targets are met across all business units. If you have extensive Packaging Sales Experience, have successfully managed large accounts (Agricultural, Mining, Chemical, Co Op), and are comfortable operating in a dynamic, non-corporate environment, we want to hear from you.

Job Description

Reports to: Group CEO

Direct Reports: Sales Manager - Cape Bag & Cape Bulk Bag, Sales Manager - Cape Twines & Packaging


Company Overview

Cape Bag Group is a leading South African group of companies that manufactures and distributes a wide range of packaging products, including bags, bulk bags, and twines. The company's commitment is to provide high-quality products and exceptional service to its diverse customer base across various industries.


Role Summary

The General Manager for Sales is a senior leadership position responsible for developing and executing the overall sales strategy for the entire Cape Bag Group. This role requires a dynamic and results-driven individual with a proven track record in sales leadership within the manufacturing and distribution sectors. The ideal candidate must be a hands-on leader who embraces a culture of 'doing and managing'; this is not a corporate environment, and the General Manager is expected to actively maintain client relationships, solve problems, and lead from the front, not just manage from an office. The General Manager is accountable for driving revenue growth, managing key accounts, and leading a high-performing sales team across multiple business units. Initially, the General Manager will also be directly responsible for sales at the Cape Twines and Packaging division until the Sales Manager is fully settled.


Key Responsibilities

  • Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement comprehensive sales strategies and business plans to achieve and exceed sales targets for the entire group. You will analyse market trends and competitor activities to identify new business opportunities. You will also collaborate with senior management to align sales strategies with the group’s overall business objectives.

  • Sales Management and Performance: Oversee the sales operations of all group companies, including Cape Bag, Cape Bulk Bag, and Cape Twines & Packaging. This includes setting clear sales goals, targets, and KPIs for each business unit. You will also provide regular performance reports to senior management.

  • Direct Sales & Problem Solving: Actively engage with key customers, own customer relationships, and be responsible for complex problem-solving in the field.

  • Team Leadership and Development: Lead, mentor, and motivate the two Sales Managers and their respective teams. The role involves providing guidance on complex sales negotiations and problem-solving. You will also foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within the sales department.

  • Customer and Account Management: Maintain and build strong, long-term relationships with key customers and strategic partners. This includes experience managing Agricultural, Mining, Chemical, Co Op, and National Group Accounts. You will also act as a point of escalation for critical customer issues. The role includes identifying opportunities for cross-selling and up-selling products across the group’s portfolio.

  • Budgeting and Financial Oversight: Develop and manage the group's sales budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to achieve sales objectives. You will also monitor sales expenses and implement cost-effective measures.


Qualifications and Requirements

  • Industry Experience is Critical: Must be from the packaging industry, with extensive Packaging Sales Experience.

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field; an MBA is a plus.

  • Proven experience of at least 8-10 years in a senior sales management role, preferably within the manufacturing, packaging, or similar industrial sectors.

  • Account Experience: Agricultural, Mining, Chemical, Co Op, National Group Accounts experience is a must.

  • Language Skill: Afrikaans language is critical based on the customer base.

  • Geographical Scope: Broader African experience would be an advantage.

  • Demonstrated success in leading and managing multi-functional sales teams.

  • Strong strategic planning and analytical skills.

  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

  • In-depth knowledge of the South African market and sales landscape.

  • Proficiency in CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite.

  • Ability to travel as required to meet with customers and visit business units.

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