We are looking for an experienced, results-driven Sales Manager to lead the growth of our bakery and frozen product portfolio. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and executing sales strategies, expanding market share, strengthening customer relationships and building a high-performing sales team.

Job Summary

Employer: Oven Art Craft Bakery
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
Category: Sales
Closing Date: 2026-09-25

Key Responsibilities

Develop and execute the annual sales strategy and plans to deliver agreed revenue, volume and market-share targets.
Drive sales growth across key channels, including retail, supermarkets, wholesalers, distributors, hotels, restaurants, OSRs, catering companies, schools, institutions and corporate clients.
Identify and develop new markets, customers, territories and distribution channels to expand the Company’s footprint.
Develop effective go-to-market, route-to-market and distribution strategies, ensuring product availability and optimal customer coverage.
Build and manage strong relationships with key customers and strategic accounts, including negotiating pricing, trading terms, promotions and volume commitments within approved parameters.
Drive product listing, shelf presence, cross-selling, up-selling and customer spend across the Company’s portfolio.
Monitor sales, pricing, margins, competitor activity and market trends, providing actionable market intelligence and sales forecasts to Management.
Work closely with Production, Supply Chain, Finance and Marketing to ensure accurate demand planning, stock availability, commercial profitability and effective promotional execution.
Recruit, coach and develop a high-performance sales team, setting clear targets, monitoring performance and strengthening sales capability.
Manage customer credit within approved limits, support debt collection and proactively escalate credit risks and overdue accounts.
Continuously identify opportunities for new products, pack sizes, pricing strategies, customer segments and geographic expansion.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Sales, Marketing, Business Management, Commerce or a related field
A professional qualification in Sales/Marketing will be an added advantage.
5-8 years’ relevant sales experience, preferably within FMCG, bakery, food manufacturing, food service or retail/distribution.
Proven track record of growing sales, developing markets and increasing market share.
Strong commercial, negotiation, customer relationship and business development skills.
Excellent communication, presentation, analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, with the ability to analyse and interpret sales data.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, target-driven environment with minimal supervision.
Highly energetic, self-motivated, organised and results-oriented, with a strong sense of urgency.
Demonstrated ability to lead, coach and motivate a sales team and build a customer-focused, high-performance culture.

How to Apply

Apply by email: careers@zw-simbisa.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications or education do I need to become a Sales Manager at a bakery in Zimbabwe?

Most employers prefer a diploma or degree in Marketing, Business Management, or a related field from institutions like UZ, MSU, or reputable polytechnics. Practical experience in FMCG or food retail sales often matters more than formal education. A certificate in sales management from ZIM or professional bodies like the Marketers Association of Zimbabwe adds competitive advantage.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Sales Manager in a Zimbabwean bakery?

You will lead a sales team to distribute bread and confectionery products to retail outlets, supermarkets, and informal markets like tuckshops. Daily tasks include route planning, stock monitoring, debtor management, and building relationships with wholesale buyers. You must also track competitor pricing and report on market trends to adjust sales strategies.

How does workplace culture and employer expectations differ for sales roles in Zimbabwe's food industry?

Employers expect high resilience due to economic volatility, including managing cash transactions and navigating currency fluctuations. Punctuality and personal vehicle ownership for supervision are often valued, though some companies provide fuel allowances. Hierarchical respect and direct reporting lines are important, with weekend work common in bakery operations.

What career progression opportunities exist for Sales Managers in Zimbabwe's bakery and FMCG sector?

Strong performers typically advance to Regional Sales Manager or National Sales Director roles within 3-5 years. Some transition to operations management or start their own distribution businesses using established networks. Cross-sector moves to larger FMCG companies like Nestlé Zimbabwe or Dairibord are common for those with proven track records.

What benefits should I expect or negotiate for as a Sales Manager in Zimbabwe?

Standard packages usually include NSSA pension contributions, limited medical aid through schemes like CIMAS or PSMAS, and statutory annual leave of 21 days. Negotiate for fuel allowances, mobile airtime, and performance-based incentives given transport costs. Company vehicle provision varies significantly by employer size and should be clarified during interviews.

How do I apply for Sales Manager positions in Zimbabwe, and what do employers prioritize?

Apply through LinkedIn, local job portals like Classifieds.co.zw, or direct walk-ins to bakery headquarters in industrial areas. Employers prioritize candidates with existing retail networks, proven team leadership, and clean driver's licenses. Prepare for practical assessments like route planning exercises and bring verifiable sales achievement records from previous roles.