Key Account Manager U-Pro at Unilever

JOB PURPOSE

• Drive aggressive growth for Unilever Professional in Southern Africa by building a strong pipeline, acquiring new accounts, and accelerating distributor-led expansion. Success is measured by new business wins, rapid market penetration, and profitable incremental revenue.

WHAT WILL YOUR MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES BE
New Business Acquisition

• Identify, target, and convert new end-user customers through distributors and priority segments.
• Build and maintain a high-quality pipeline with clear KPIs for conversion.
• Lead solution selling, product trials, and contract negotiations to close deals.
• Mobilize distributor sales teams to hunt alongside you and deliver joint wins.

Distributor Growth

• Recruit and onboard new distributors equipped with tools and knowledge to scale fast.
• Drive range expansion and penetration within existing accounts.
• Develop and execute joint business plans aligned to aggressive growth targets.
• Lead quarterly reviews and implement corrective actions to stay ahead.

Market Development & Execution

• Execute Unilever Professional’s route-to-market strategy across South Africa.
• Launch new products and initiatives with speed and precision.
• Monitor competitor activity and market trends; provide actionable insights to leadership.

Performance & Reporting

• Deliver accurate forecasts and track pipeline conversion.
• Report on KPIs: new business wins, distributor expansion, sell-in/sell-out, and activation.

What We’re Looking For

Experience & Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in Business, Marketing, or Sales.
• Minimum 5 years in B2B industry with proven success as a hunter.
• Experience in foodservice, hygiene, contract cleaning, chemicals, or consumables.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel nationally.

Skills

• Hunter mindset: Highly driven, self-starter, thrives on winning.
• Proven track record in B2B sales and distributor management.
• Ability to open new doors and convert competitor business.
• Strong negotiation, commercial acumen, and execution discipline.
• Confident communicator and presenter.