Wilderness is seeking a dynamic and experienced sales leader to drive growth and expand market presence across East Africa. The East African Regional Sales Manager is tasked with a dual focus in their responsibilities. The primary focus is on managing local accounts, while the secondary focus is on handling international agents. This role requires a highly organized and strategic Sales Manager with a deep understanding of the safari tourism industry, who can elevate brand positioning and deliver measurable results.
The Regional Sales Manager will play a key role in promoting and selling the company’s portfolio of products, creating a competitive edge in the East Africa region. Core responsibilities include the development and execution of tailored sales strategies, collaboration with the marketing team to produce impactful campaigns and collateral, formulation of pricing strategies, and the achievement of defined sales and marketing objectives.
Representing a collection of distinguished brands, Wilderness, Governors’ Camp Collection, Governors’ Aviation, and Wayo Africa. The Regional Sales Manager will lead initiatives to enhance brand awareness by closely monitoring market dynamics, competitor activity, and emerging industry trends.
This position requires strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills, paired with a comprehensive understanding of sales and marketing within the high-end travel and hospitality sector.
Responsibilities:
- Promote the company’s existing brands (Wilderness, Governors’ Camp Collection, Governors’ Aviation, and Wayo Africa) while introducing new products to identified target markets.
- Develop and execute annual sales strategies, including data analysis, budgeting, and performance monitoring, to ensure targets and goals are achieved.
- Provide input and insights to support business growth objectives.
- Identify market trends, analyze consumer behavior, and propose strategic improvements to maximize sales opportunities.
- Conduct thorough market research and compile insightful reports to guide strategic decision-making.
- Lead the creation and implementation of innovative sales campaigns and advertising initiatives.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key agents including both local and international agents. This should be done through regular visits and a proactive engagement.
- Deliver compelling sales presentations and product sessions in collaboration with Wilderness, Wayo Africa, and Governors’ Camp Collection teams.
- Stay informed about industry developments by participating in conferences, workshops, and professional networks.
- Leverage CRM systems to manage leads, monitor interactions, and maintain comprehensive records of client communications and sales activities.
- Negotiate sales contracts, pricing, and terms with agents; prepare accurate proposals, quotes, and agreements in line with company policies when required.
- Distribute annual contract rates and monitor their impact on sales performance.
- Plan and conduct strategic agent visits both locally and in key source markets to foster relationships and promote offerings.
- Manage agent partnerships effectively, ensuring long-term collaboration and mutual growth.
- Host familiarization (FAM) trips for agents to enhance product knowledge and promote property experiences.
- Working closely with the internal stakeholders. This includes but is not limited to the following: Managing Directors of Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda; Travel Shop staff in Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda; the greater sales team including external representatives and the greater marketing and digital team.
Candidate Profile
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Sales and Marketing, Business Administration, Mathematics, or a related field is advantageous.
- Solid understanding of core principles and practices in sales and marketing.
Experience
- 3–5 years of professional experience in sales or marketing roles, preferably within the travel, tourism, or hospitality sectors.
- Previous experience in team or project management is an advantage.
Skills
- Strong analytical capabilities with the ability to interpret data and drive insights.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a client-focused mindset.
- Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Proficiency in report writing and performance analysis.
- Confident in following company procedures and adapting to evolving processes.
- Creative thinking with a proactive approach to problem-solving and strategy development.
Personal Attributes
- Thrives under pressure while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Able to prioritize effectively and adapt to shifting demands.
- Collaborative team player who can liaise across multiple departments.
- Demonstrates strong follow-through and accountability.
- Maintains a consistent standard of quality in service and output.
- Results-oriented with a passion for achieving objectives.
Interests
- Deep appreciation for wildlife, with a strong alignment to sustainability and conservation values