Sales Executive

About the job:

The sales executive is responsible for identifying and developing business opportunities within the HORECA sector. This role involves generating leads, building relationships with clients, and driving sales for products and services to food services businesses. The Sales Executive will be expected to manage the entire sales cycle from prospecting to closing, and provide post-sale support to ensure customer satisfaction and long-term business partnerships.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Sales and Business Development:
   • Identify and target potential clients within the HORECA sector, such as hotels, restaurants, catering companies, and other foodservice businesses.
   • Prospect and develop new business opportunities through cold calling, networking, and using sales databases.
   • Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing customers to encourage repeat business and long-term partnerships.
   • Understand the unique needs of HORECA clients and tailor product and service offerings to meet those needs.
2. Product Knowledge & Presentation:
   • Maintain a deep understanding of the company’s products and services, including features, benefits, and competitive advantages.
   • Conduct product presentations, demonstrations, and negotiate terms with prospective clients.
   • Keep up-to-date with market trends, industry developments, and competitor offerings to provide insights to clients and stay ahead in the market.
3. Sales Targets and Reporting:
   • Meet or exceed monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets and KPIs.
   • Track sales progress, opportunities, and outcomes using CRM software and provide regular reports to his/her superior.
   • Follow up on leads, process inquiries, and ensure that all communications with clients are recorded in the CRM system.
4. Customer Relationship Management:
   • Build rapport and trust with key decision-makers and stakeholders in client organizations.
   • Provide exceptional customer service by addressing client inquiries, solving problems, and managing expectations.
   • Manage post-sale follow-up, ensuring that clients are satisfied with the products and services provided and address any issues that arise.
5. Collaboration with Internal Teams:
   • Work closely with category and brand managers, customer service team, and logistics teams to ensure smooth execution of orders, deliveries, and customer satisfaction.
   • Collaborate with the supply chain teams to ensure that the products meet the specific needs of the clients in the HORECA sector.
6. Market Research & Competitive Analysis:
   • Conduct regular market research to identify new business opportunities, customer preferences, and emerging trends.
   • Monitor competitor activities and adjust sales strategies as necessary to maintain a competitive edge.

Skills and Qualifications:

1. Education: A degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Hospitality Management, or a related field is preferred.
2. Experience: 3+ years of experience in B2B sales, with a focus on the HORECA industry. Proven track record of successful sales experience in the foodservice, hospitality, or related sectors.
3. Skills:
   • Strong communication and negotiation skills, both written and verbal.
   • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build long-term relationships with clients.
   • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
   • Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple clients and sales activities.
   • Proficiency in using CRM software and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
4. Personal Traits:
   • Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and driven by results.
   • Professional, reliable, and confident in dealing with key decision-makers.
   • Flexible and adaptable to changing market conditions and client needs.