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How to become a Sales Manager in South Africa

Leads sales teams, manages revenue targets and grows business through client acquisition and account expansion.

Step-by-step path

  1. STEP 1
    Education
    Business, sales or industry-specific background
    1–6 yrs
  2. STEP 2
    Entry job
    First role: Sales Representative
    0–2 yrs
  3. STEP 3
    Mid-level growth
    Move into: Account Executive
    3–6 yrs
  4. STEP 4
    Senior transition
    Reach: Sales Manager
    7+ yrs

Time estimate

Total typical time to senior level
~ 7–10 years
Education business, sales or industry-specific background, then practical experience.

Salary growth timeline

Year 1
R30 000
/month
Year 5
R70 000
/month
Year 10
R115 000
/month

Required skills by stage

FOUNDATIONAL
  • SalesHigh
  • Client managementHigh
MID-CAREER
  • Client managementHigh
  • People managementHigh
SENIOR
  • People managementHigh
  • Commercial strategyMedium

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