Job Description    

• We at RCL Foods have recently relaunched our purpose to “We Grow What Matters”.
• We are a deeply rooted South African business, and we believe our country will thrive when we collectively grow what matters. Our purpose is anchored in a culture of empowerment and accountability, with uncompromising integrity at its heart. We are inspired by our unwavering commitment to “Grow What Matters”, placing People, Growth and Sustainability at the forefront of everything we do.
• RCL FOODS is seeking a highly skilled, decisive, efficient and innovative individual with an FMCG background in Account Management support to fill the role of Key Account Representative. The purpose of the role is to build strong relationships, establish and nurture relationships with key decision-makers in hotels, restaurants, and catering services. To build strong partnerships with customers, drive sales, coordinate promotions ensuring product visibility and smooth supply chain operations to maximize business with Key customers. This role will report to the National Account Manager and will be based in Durban.

Minimum Requirements    

• Matric
• Marketing and Sales Degree or Diploma.
• Minimum 3 years of proven sales experience, preferably in the HORECA, foodservice, or related industries.
• At least 2 years of experience working in a kitchen (e.g., chef, sous chef, kitchen manager, etc) or culinary education.
• In-depth understanding of kitchen operations, culinary techniques, and food trends.
• Ability to speak the language of chefs and understand their specific operational needs.
• Strong track record of achieving sales targets and growing client accounts.
• Valid driver’s licence with own vehicle, travel within the region is required
• Experience in both B2B sales and the culinary sector.
• A network of contacts within the HORECA industry.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and culinary best practices.
• Familiarity with CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Product Training: Provide detailed product training to HORECA staff, ensuring they understand the benefits, preparation methods, and selling points of plant-based products
• Customized Solutions:Offer tailored plant-based solutions that meet the specific needs of each establishment, such as creating custom menus or suggesting products that align with their culinary style.
• Promotional Campaigns: Develop and implement targeted promotional campaigns and special offers to attract HORECA businesses. This could include discounts, bundle deals, or exclusive trials.
• Sampling and Demonstrations:Arrange for product sampling and demonstrations to showcase the taste, quality, and versatility of plant-based offerings. This can help in converting hesitant customers into buyers.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Explore partnerships with influential chefs, food bloggers, or industry events to increase brand visibility and credibility in the HORECA sector.
• Sales Strategies: Develop and implement effective sales strategies, including upselling and cross-selling, Rah Rah Days at Bidfood branches to maximize revenue from existing branches.

Sales & Business Development:

• Identify and target potential customers within the HORECA sector (hotels, restaurants, catering companies, etc.).
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with clients through regular follow-ups, meetings, and tailored solutions.
• Conduct product demonstrations and offer expert advice on how our products can enhance the customer’s kitchen or service offering.
• Negotiate pricing, close sales, and achieve monthly/quarterly sales targets.
• Track sales activities, customer feedback, and market trends to identify new opportunities for growth.

Culinary Consultation & Support:

• Leverage culinary experience to understand the unique challenges faced by chefs and kitchen teams in the HORECA industry.
• Advise customers on product selection based on their menu, kitchen size, and operational needs.
• Provide support and training to customers on how to best use our products and solutions in their kitchens.
• Act as a culinary expert for customers looking for ways to improve their menu offerings or kitchen efficiency.

Market Knowledge:

• Stay up to date with industry trends, customer preferences, and competitor offerings to stay ahead of the market.
• Provide insights on new culinary trends that can influence sales opportunities and product offerings.

Collaboration & Reporting:

• Work closely with the marketing, operations, and customer service teams to ensure a seamless experience for customers.
• Report on sales activities, performance metrics, and any customer issues that require attention.

Communication & Negotiation Skills:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport quickly.
• Strong negotiation skills and a customer-centric approach to sales.

Problem-Solving & Product Knowledge:

• Ability to diagnose customer needs and propose tailored solutions.
• Familiarity with products related to the HORECA industry (kitchen equipment, food products, consumables, etc) is an advantage.
• Attend weekly and monthly customer meetings.
• Day-to-day customer engagement and resolving customer queries.

Organizational & Time Management Skills:

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple accounts and priorities.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently while collaborating with a team.