The posting
Who are we?
SOLEVO is a leading distributor of chemicals and inputs for specific industrial and agricultural segments in Africa. SOLEVO assists African farmers and Industries succeed by providing them with a full range of fertilizers, seeds, crop protection products and industrial chemicals they need with a guaranteed quality and good value. With over 75 years at the frontier of economic growth and transformation across Africa, we deliver critical raw materials and expertise to the continent’s high GDP-contributing life sciences and industrials sectors.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for a dynamic and results-driven Branch Manager to lead our branch operations, drive business growth, and ensure exceptional customer service. The ideal candidate is a strong leader with a passion for people management, operational excellence, and achieving sales targets while fostering a positive and productive work environment.
What do we expect from the candidate?
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills, with proven experience in branch, retail, or business management. We expect someone who can effectively manage teams, build lasting customer relationships, maintain operational compliance, and consistently deliver on business objectives. A proactive approach, commercial awareness, and the ability to perform in a fast-paced environment are essential.
The key responsibilities:
Business & Financial Leadership
- Drive achievement of branch revenue, margin, and profitability targets.
- Analyse financial performance (P&L, cost control, pricing) and implement corrective actions.
- Develop and execute regional growth strategies in line with company objectives.
- Monitor sales performance, pipeline development, and market share growth.
- Identify and capitalise on new business opportunities and emerging market trend.
Commercial & Customer Management
- Lead, coach and support the sales team to deliver sustainable revenue growth.
- Maintain strong relationships with key accounts and strategic customers.
- Oversee pricing strategies and negotiations aligned to margin targets and Head Office guidelines.
- Ensure effective handling of customer queries, complaints, and service delivery issues.
- Enhance brand visibility and positioning within the region.
Operational Excellence
- Ensure efficient branch operations, including inventory management, warehousing, and order fulfilment.
- Maintain accurate stock control and alignment between ERP and warehouse systems.
- Oversee demand planning, stock forecasting, and procurement processes.
- Drive continuous improvement in operational processes and cost optimisation.
- Ensure effective coordination with outsourced logistics and warehousing partners.
Operational Excellence
- Ensure efficient branch operations, including inventory management, warehousing, and order fulfilment.
- Maintain accurate stock control and alignment between ERP and warehouse systems.
- Oversee demand planning, stock forecasting, and procurement processes.
- Drive continuous improvement in operational processes and cost optimisation.
- Ensure effective coordination with outsourced logistics and warehousing partners.
People Leadership & Talent Development
- Lead and manage cross-functional teams across sales, warehouse, and administration.
- Drive a high-performance culture through coaching, performance management, and capability development.
- Ensure effective recruitment, onboarding, and retention of talent.
- Promote employee engagement aligned to Solevo values and leadership principles.
Governance, Compliance & HSE
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain adherence to company policies, procedures, and ethical standards.
- Oversee safety programmes including hazchem, firefighting, and first aid readiness.
- Ensure audit readiness and compliance with internal and external standards.
If you possess…
Must-Have:
- Matric (Grade 12), Degree/Diploma in Business, Supply Chain or related.
- A minimum of 5-7 years’ experience in a similar role.
- Experience within chemicals, ingredients, or FMCG distribution sectors (advantageous).
- Proven track record in team leadership and financial performance management.
- Excellent negotiation and leadership skills.
If you are…
- Able to tackle complex problems effectively and adapt to fast-paced development environments.
- A strong leader and have the ability to mentor junior consultants.
- Proven track record of working effectively in remote team settings, demonstrating flexibility, and contributing positively to a collaborative work environment.
- Analytical and a Problem-Solving person: Exceptional ability to analyse complex requirements, identify potential bottlenecks, and devise effective solutions. Strong debugging skills to efficiently resolve issues in the development process.
Why join Solevo?
- Join a young dynamic team who is leading the chemical distribution on the African continent.
- Enjoy a collaborative, international and agile work environment.
- Be part of a team where freedom, initiative and ‘thinking out of the box’ is key.
- Opportunity to work in a growing versatile environment.
- Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits package.
- Explore opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
Then, this job is for you!
How to join us?
If you’re excited about this position, we encourage you to submit your resume detailing your relevant experience and be part of our exciting journey.
What's next ?
If your profile matches our search, you will be contacted by our HR team for a first contact.
Please be informed that we will keep your profile to contact you for future professional opportunities.
