Field Merchandising Manager | KwaZulu Natal

Managed People Solutions · Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

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Job Description

Are you a driven people leader with a passion for FMCG, merchandising and creating winning experiences in trade?
We're looking for an energetic and results-driven Field Merchandising Manager to lead, coach and inspire our merchandising team to deliver world-class execution in trade across the Coastal Area.
This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on leader who knows how to turn strategy into action, build strong customer relationships and unlock the full potential of a high-performing team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead & Inspire

Lead, motivate, coach and empower the merchandising team to achieve exceptional performance.
Conduct effective weekly team meetings and maintain open, transparent communication.
Identify training and development needs and work with the Training Team to implement development plans.
Build a high-performance culture through coaching, mentorship, skills transfer and informal succession planning.
Address and resolve team conflicts effectively and maintain a positive, productive working environment.

Drive Performance & Execution

Ensure merchandisers consistently deliver against client KPIs and standards of excellence.
Monitor merchandising activity daily and ensure targeted calls are achieved.
Effectively plan and manage merchandiser call cycles to maximise productivity and coverage.
Spend sufficient time in trade with merchandisers across the Coastal Area to coach, support and drive execution.
Ensure promotional opportunities and requirements are executed according to client needs and promotional SOPs.
Ensure vehicle inspection surveys are completed and that identified issues are reported, escalated and resolved.

Build Strong Customer Relationships

Manage client and customer communication professionally and effectively.
Respond promptly to customer complaints, queries, requests and feedback.
Build strong, lasting relationships with customers and proactively resolve challenges.
Work closely with Sales Representatives and Key Account Managers to maximise opportunities in trade.

Manage Operations & Budgets

Ensure operational requirements for the merchandising team are effectively managed within the approved budget.
Monitor expenditure and prevent unnecessary or unauthorised overspending.
Ensure accurate call information is submitted by the required monthly deadline for invoicing purposes.

Own Data, Reporting & Systems

Effectively manage the administrative requirements of Repforce, including adding and removing stores, loading surveys and ensuring accurate data.
Monitor system data and provide feedback on data accuracy and system requirements.
Ensure accurate data is collected, analysed and presented to provide meaningful insights.
Highlight opportunities, challenges, promotional execution and trends to the Client and MD.

Drive Continuous Improvement

Stay up to date with FMCG industry trends, challenges, legislation and market developments.
Contribute to the review and development of merchandising policies, procedures and SOPs.
Adhere to all MPS policies, procedures and best-practice approaches.
Support ad hoc projects and business initiatives when required.
Continuously develop your own knowledge, skills and professional competence.

REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience

Degree in Sales and Marketing Management or a related field NQF Level 7.
3-5 years' sales and merchandising experience within a related FMCG environment.
At least 1 year experience in a supervisory or management role.
Strong FMCG and field merchandising experience.
Valid Driver's Licence.
Own vehicle and willingness to use it for work.

Knowledge

Key Skills