JOB DESCRIPTION

Position: Assistant Sales Manager

Department: Sales & Marketing
Reports To: Sales Manager
Supervises: Sales Executives, Sales Representatives, Merchandisers (where applicable)
Location: Head Office / Field Operations

Job Summary

The Assistant Sales Manager supports the Sales Manager in planning, coordinating, and supervising all sales operations to achieve the company's sales targets. The role ensures effective execution of sales strategies, manages the sales team on a day-to-day basis, strengthens customer relationships, monitors market trends, and ensures compliance with company sales policies and procedures.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Sales Planning and Execution

• Assist in developing and implementing monthly, quarterly, and annual sales plans.
• Ensure achievement of assigned sales volume, revenue, and collection targets.
• Monitor daily sales performance and recommend corrective actions where necessary.
• Coordinate sales activities across all territories and depots.

2. Sales Team Supervision

• Supervise, guide, and support Sales Executives and Sales Representatives.
• Conduct regular field visits to coach and evaluate the performance of sales staff.
• Monitor staff attendance, discipline, productivity, and compliance with company policies.
• Assist in recruitment, onboarding, and training of new sales personnel.

3. Customer Relationship Management

• Maintain strong relationships with distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and key accounts.
• Resolve customer complaints promptly and professionally.
• Identify opportunities to increase customer satisfaction and retention.
• Support negotiations with major customers when required.

4. Sales Performance Monitoring

• Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly sales performance reports.
• Analyze sales trends and identify opportunities for business growth.
• Monitor individual sales targets and provide performance feedback.
• Recommend strategies to improve underperforming territories.

5. Market Development

• Identify new markets and potential customers.
• Monitor competitor pricing, products, promotions, and market activities.
• Recommend new business opportunities and product improvements.
• Support implementation of promotional campaigns and product launches.

6. Inventory and Distribution Coordination

• Coordinate with the warehouse and logistics teams to ensure timely product availability.
• Monitor stock levels at depots and distributors.
• Assist in minimizing stock shortages and product returns.
• Ensure efficient product distribution.

7. Credit and Collections

Monitor customer credit limits and outstanding balances.

• Follow up with customers to ensure timely payments.
• Work closely with Finance to reconcile customer accounts.
• Ensure compliance with company credit policies.

8. Compliance and Administration

• Ensure proper use of the Electronic Billing Machine (EBM) during all sales transactions.
• Ensure all sales activities comply with company policies and Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) requirements.
• Maintain accurate sales records and documentation.
• Ensure confidentiality of company information.

9. Reporting

• Submit daily field activity reports.
• Prepare weekly sales summaries.
• Prepare monthly performance analysis reports.
• Report market intelligence and competitor activities to the Sales Manager.

10. Other Responsibilities

• Represent the company during trade exhibitions, customer meetings, and promotional events.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the Sales Manager or Management.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Commerce, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in sales, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role.
• Experience in FMCG, manufacturing, or distribution is an added advantage.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Customer-focused mindset.
• Good planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of sales reporting systems and CRM software is an advantage.
• Valid driving license (preferred).
• High integrity, professionalism, and accountability.