About the position
Industrial Automation Sales Manager
Our client is seeking an Industrial Automation Sales Manager to grow sales and strengthen its channel partner network across South Africa.
The role combines technical sales, business development and partner management, working with distributors, wholesalers, system integrators, panel builders and resellers. You will support the low-voltage sales and procurement teams, identify new opportunities and help partners sell and implement industrial automation solutions.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and implement channel sales strategies to grow revenue and market presence.
- Identify, recruit and onboard new channel partners.
- Build and maintain relationships with customers, suppliers and existing partners.
- Identify opportunities across industries including mining, manufacturing, food and beverage, automotive, energy and construction.
- Conduct joint customer visits, sales presentations and proposals with partners, sales representatives and branch managers.
- Provide product training and technical sales support, including face-to-face and virtual training for partners and staff nationally.
- Achieve sales targets, monitor partner and branch performance, and implement improvement plans.
- Manage sales pipelines, forecasts and reports to senior management.
- Identify cross-selling and upselling opportunities and promote company programmes and promotions.
- Work with marketing to develop initiatives that support partner engagement and sales.
- Interpret technical specifications and assess projects, advising on feasibility, performance, efficiency, quality and sustainability.
- Provide technical advice on low-voltage power distribution, motor control and protection, variable speed drives, soft starters, UPS systems and associated software.
- Coordinate with procurement, finance, management and branch teams, including assisting with branch stock levels.
- Manage supplier and contractor relationships, mitigate contractual risks and assist with channel conflict.
- Stay informed about relevant technologies, legislation, codes, standards and accreditations.
Desired Experience and Qualifications
- 2-5 years of sales experience in industrial automation or a related industrial sales field, including 2-3 years in channel sales or partner management.
- Grade 12 with a relevant diploma, degree, technical or electrical qualification, or industrial automation certification. Proven relevant sales experience or artisan accreditation will also be considered in line with the role's qualification alternatives.
- A proven record of meeting or exceeding sales targets in a channel-focused environment.
- Strong technical knowledge of industrial automation products, applications, system design and construction.
- Knowledge of the South African industrial market, customer needs and competitive landscape.
- Ability to translate technical requirements into project proposals, including financial impact analysis.
- Understanding of relevant South African codes, standards, legislation and installation requirements.
- Strong communication, presentation, negotiation and relationship management skills.
- Sound commercial judgement, emotional intelligence, attention to detail and organisational skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM software and intermediate to advanced Excel, including reporting, forecasting, data analysis and pivot tables.
- A valid driver's licence and a responsible driving record.
- Willingness to travel frequently within South Africa and internationally when required.
Desired Skills:
- Technical Sales
- Technical Product Sales
- Client Liason
- New Business Development
- Regional Sales
- Automation
- VSD
- Electrical
Desired Work Experience:
- 1 to 2 years Wholesale & Trading
- 2 to 5 years Representative / Sales Consulting
Desired Qualification Level:
