Permanent - Key Account Manager – Pharma/Health/Nutraceuticals - Ekurhuleni (East Rand) - South Africa

Role Summary

• The Key Account Manager, Pharma/Health/Nutraceuticals is a results-driven, entrepreneurial sales
• professional responsible for driving new business growth while managing and expanding existing key accounts.
• This role is designed for a self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment, takes ownership of their account portfolio, and is comfortable making strategic decisions based on customer needs. While managing a portfolio of existing accounts, the primary focus is on hunting for new business opportunities at existing customers and identifying, engaging, and winning new customers to expand market share.
• The Key Account Manager will serve as the face of the company to assigned and prospective customers, leveraging expertise in the Pharma/Health/Nutraceuticals industry to develop tailored solutions, build strong relationships, and maximize sales performance.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new customer opportunities, prospecting and winning new business to accelerate volume, revenue and margin growth.
• Develop and execute an aggressive sales strategy, from lead generation and qualification to contract negotiation and closing.
• Take ownership of customer engagements, making informed decisions to maximize value and drive long-term partnerships.
• Strengthen relationships with existing customers, continuously identifying opportunities for expanding basket of products offered, upselling and cross-selling.
• Act as a strategic partner, deeply understanding customer challenges and aligning company offerings to their needs.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, competitor activity and market opportunities to proactively position solutions.
• Develop strategic pricing structures based on market conditions, customer profiles, and company objectives.
• Create account sales plans, manage budgeting, and develop strategic approaches to achieve volume, revenue and gross margin targets.
• Involving the negotiation of terms, developing proposals, and management of contractual agreements with new and existing accounts, ensuring strong financial outcomes.
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure seamless execution of customer requirements and high service levels. Including contributing to sales forecasting by analysing market trends and historical data to drive growth and decision-making.
• Provide hands-on support in resolving customer challenges, managing complaints, and ensuring satisfaction.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• A tertiary qualification, Bachelor of Science, preferably in Life Sciences, Food Science or related discipline.
• A Minimum 5 years’ experience in in the Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical and OTC market segments with strong customer network and relationships.
• A Minimum 3 years’ sales experience.

Knowledge & Skills

• Previous experience in Key Account Management and industry-specific knowledge (Pharma, Health and/or Nutraceuticals) is essential.
• Proven experience in Business-to-Business (B2B) sales with a track record of success.
• Advanced computer skills, particular in Excel for data management, as well as proficiency in Word and PowerPoint.
• Proficiency in CRM software and sales analytics & sales tools.
• Strong negotiation and dispute resolution skills.
• SAP experience is preferred.
• Required Qualifications and Experience