Our client, a leading global news agency (covering 150 countries, with more than 200 bureaus around the World) seeks to appoint a Commercial Manager who will be responsible for establishing new business relations in Southern African markets and increase sales revenue by selling news, sport and entertainment information as well as bespoke / on demand content to a variety of sectors.
We are seeking a commercially aware, professional, articulate, charismatic and experienced sales person, with drive and determination who is confident when pitching to senior level decision makers and discussing sensitive business issues.

Competencies:
• Tenacious
• A forward-thinking individual
• Someone with confidence with high level of initiative
• Must have good interpersonal skills.
• Highly self-motivated
• Process orientated & result-driven
• You need to have the ability to work independently as a self-starter
• This role offers you flexibility, responsibility and autonomy
• Strong network ability
• Strong negotiation skills

Skills and requirements:
• Minimum of 5 years marketing and sales experience
• Strong and genuine interest in news and current affairs
• Experience in news media/agency content business / TV/ Production House/ experience will be advantageous
• Technologically savvy – social media, tech innovations, new platforms etc.
• Able to identify new opportunities and grow relationships that did not exist
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong negotiation and closing skills
• Must be available to travel frequently within Southern Africa and once a year, internationally or within Africa.
• Fluency in foreign languages (Portuguese, French) would be advantageous.
• A business graduate will be advantageous
.
Responsibilities:
• You are responsible for securing the existing client portfolio and develop business in both traditional and new media (internet and mobile).
• You will analyze customer needs and establish solution proposals based on the product range of the company. You will represent and promote the Company across the territory.
• Offer and sell news content to televisions and medias throughout Southern Africa and Africa.
• Offer and sell news content and on-demand content to corporations in your markets
• Establish business and sales strategies within the relevant markets
• Carry out research and analysis on markets and sales prospects
• Develop quotes and proposals
• Liaise with the regional sales team
• Generate sales presentations, in liaison with the marketing team
• Cultivate relationships in target industries and maximize visibility for the company