Agri-food Technical Sales Representative
Specialist in B2B sales of food products, skilled in negotiation with distributors and restaurateurs.
About
The Agri-food Technical Sales Representative is responsible for promoting and selling food products to business clients, including distributors and restaurant professionals. This role requires a strong technical understanding of food products combined with commercial skills to negotiate contracts and build long-term client relationships. The representative acts as a bridge between the production teams and the market, ensuring customer needs are met while supporting company sales objectives.
Entering the profession — South Africa
Entry is generally through graduation in relevant fields followed by internships or junior sales roles in agro-food companies. Additional sales certifications can facilitate access.
Training — South Africa
The formation relies on a professional curriculum oriented towards agricultural sciences, food technology, and commercial skills. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical internships to develop technical expertise and sales capabilities.
The job market — South Africa
The job market shows moderate demand with stable growth prospects in agro-food sectors. Employers include manufacturers, distributors, and agricultural input suppliers. Remote work is rare due to the client-facing nature of the role. Automation risk is medium as technical knowledge and interpersonal skills remain essential.
Skills
Technical skills
- Possesses extensive knowledge of food products and the agri-food industry
- Skilled in B2B sales techniques and negotiation skills
- Understands distribution channels and restaurant supply chains
- Provides expert product technical advising
- Conducts market analysis and competitor monitoring
- Experienced in contract management
- Utilizes CRM and sales reporting tools effectively
Interpersonal skills
- Exhibits strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Adopts a customer-oriented approach
- Demonstrates negotiation and persuasion abilities
- Shows autonomy and initiative
- Adaptable to market changes
- Collaborates effectively within a team
- Maintains a problem-solving mindset
Tasks
- Identify and prospect potential B2B clients in the food industry
- Present and promote food products to distributors and restaurateurs
- Negotiate sales contracts and terms with clients
- Provide technical advice and product information to customers
- Monitor market trends and competitor activities
- Collaborate with production and marketing teams to align product offerings
- Manage client accounts and ensure customer satisfaction
- Participate in trade shows and industry events
- Prepare sales reports and forecasts
- Support after-sales service and resolve client issues
- Contribute to the development of sales strategies
- Ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards
Work environments
Work environments for professionals in this sector may vary:
Career paths
- Progress to a Sales Manager role in the agri-food sector
- Advance to become a Key Account Manager
- Transition into a Product Manager position
- Develop as a Business Development Manager
- Elevate to a Regional Sales Director
