Exciting Opportunity: National Sales Manager – Sports at SABC – Full Job Overview

Position: National Sales Manager – Sports
Division: Sales
Location: Johannesburg
Position ID: 60023354
Reporting Line: Head of Sales
Scale Code: 130 (Peromnes 6, Paterson D2)
Closing Date: 09 February 2025

Position Overview:

SABC is seeking an experienced National Sales Manager – Sports to lead the Sport sales initiatives and manage the growth of advertising revenue across its various Sport-related platforms. This position involves overseeing the sales performance of Sport channels, platforms, and content within the SABC ecosystem. The successful candidate will manage both direct and indirect sales activities related to Sport while developing and executing strategies to increase market share and exceed revenue targets.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Sales Strategy and Revenue Growth:
   • Develop and implement sales strategies for Sport across multiple platforms such as Video, Radio, OTT, Web, Social, and Mobile.
   • Ensure the performance of Sport sales revenue by managing both direct sales specialists and broader sales teams.
   • Maximize revenue and market share growth by leveraging SABC’s Sport audience reach and delivering integrated solutions across various channels.
2. Client and Relationship Management:
   • Build and maintain strong relationships with agencies, clients, and stakeholders to secure long-term business partnerships.
   • Negotiate and oversee the management of all sales agreements and ensure they align with business objectives.
   • Effectively track and analyze market intelligence to drive spending patterns in favor of SABC media sales.
3. Sales Target Achievement:
   • Manage the portfolio of Sport sales from end-to-end, ensuring the achievement and exceeding of revenue targets.
   • Monitor and analyze sales performance to identify areas for improvement and capitalize on new business opportunities.
   • Develop pricing strategies and ensure that all sales deals meet the established pricing and revenue goals.
4. Team Leadership and Development:
   • Lead, motivate, and manage a dedicated team of Sport salespeople to ensure consistent and high-performing sales output.
   • Provide in-field and formal training to direct reports while supporting succession planning within the team.
   • Oversee the implementation of performance management systems to ensure goals and KPIs are consistently met.
5. Market Intelligence and Competitor Analysis:
   • Stay informed on market trends, competitor activities, and audience behavior to enhance the sales strategy and adapt to industry changes.
   • Utilize data-driven insights to optimize revenue and strengthen the positioning of SABC’s Sport platforms in the market.
6. Risk Management and Governance:
   • Identify and manage operational risks, ensuring adherence to internal policies and regulatory requirements.
   • Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Sport sales unit and monitor their effectiveness.
   • Oversee compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and manage internal risk audits to mitigate potential issues.
7. Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
   • Regularly track the progress of sales targets and report on achievements and challenges to senior management.
   • Provide accurate and timely sales forecasts, and continuously monitor revenue growth against established budgets.
   • Report on the achievement of business unit objectives and recommend strategies for further growth.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Education: A minimum relevant degree or postgraduate diploma (NQF 7/8) in Sales, Communication, Marketing, or a related field.
• Experience: A minimum of 5-8 years of sales experience, including media sales management, is required. Previous experience in the sports or media industry is highly preferred.
• Training: Supplementary training in media, digital, and sales-related courses/certifications will be an advantage.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Leadership and People Management: Strong ability to lead, manage, and motivate a diverse sales team.
• Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of the media, sports, and advertising sectors with established networks and relationships.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present and negotiate at all levels.
• Business Acumen: Strong commercial orientation and the ability to independently assess opportunities and risks.
• Sales Expertise: Proven ability to develop and execute sales strategies that achieve measurable business results.
• Analytical Ability: Strong planning, time management, and analytical skills to track sales trends and optimize strategies.
• Technical Proficiency: Computer literacy in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and CRM software. Familiarity with industry tools is an advantage.

Personal Attributes:

• Energetic, results-driven, and highly motivated individual with a passion for success.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and adapt to changing market conditions.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.