Channel Representative – General Trade (Empangeni) – RCL Foods
Job Title: Channel Representative – General Trade
Company: RCL Foods
Business Unit: Baking Division
Job Type: Permanent
Location: Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal (Reporting to Durban)
Closing Date: 19 December 2025
Reference Number: RCL251205-4
Country: South Africa
About the Role
RCL Foods is seeking a highly motivated, energetic, and customer-focused individual to join its Baking Business Unit as a Channel Representative – General Trade (GT). This permanent position plays a crucial role in supporting daily commercial operations, ensuring excellent customer service, and improving route efficiency within the region. The successful candidate will work closely with sales teams, driver teams, customers, and internal departments to ensure that product distribution runs smoothly and that sales opportunities are maximised.
Operating within the dynamic general trade environment, the Channel Representative will be responsible for maintaining relationships with customers, optimising delivery routes, monitoring performance, and ensuring that operational processes are followed. This position requires a self-driven professional who can manage multiple tasks while consistently delivering high-quality results. The role reports directly to the Sales Executive.
Minimum Requirements
Education and Qualifications
- Matric / Grade 12
- Valid Driver’s Licence (Code 10) with PDP
- Must have own vehicle
Experience and Training
- 3 to 5 years of sales experience
- Previous driver-salesman experience is advantageous
- Experience working in general trade or FMCG environments will be beneficial
Candidates must have strong communication skills, the ability to build customer relationships, and the capability to work effectively with driver teams.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Efficient and Cost-Effective Product Distribution
The Channel Representative plays a central role in ensuring that daily delivery operations are optimised. Responsibilities include:
- Ensuring that all driver teams follow planned and optimised delivery routes
- Verifying that both new and existing customers are properly mapped on the GPS system
- Monitoring orders to support improved truck utilisation and ensuring loaves-per-kilometre targets are met
This ensures a cost-effective distribution network that supports business growth and customer satisfaction.
2. Monitoring Balances and Returns
Balancing orders is essential to operational efficiency. Duties include:
- Reviewing driver orders daily, especially for informal trade customers
- Tracking all returns and identifying problem areas
- Developing and implementing recovery plans to reduce unnecessary returns and losses
This helps maintain strong inventory control and supports overall profitability.
3. Daily Sales Reporting and Market Insight
Accurate reporting is vital for managing targets. Tasks include:
- Compiling and submitting daily sales figures from drivers
- Monitoring performance to ensure that sales targets are achieved
- Gathering key information from the marketplace, including competitor activity
- Providing actionable plans for improvement and presenting insights to management
This ensures that the team remains competitive and well-informed.
4. Customer Data Accuracy and Account Management
The Channel Representative ensures that customer details are consistently updated and aligned with company systems.
- Ensure customer addresses, classifications, and account details are correctly captured
- Confirm that new and existing accounts reflect accurate information
Accurate data management supports operational efficiency and strengthens customer relationship processes.
5. Driver Team Competency and Delivery Management
A significant portion of the job involves leading, training, and supporting driver teams. Responsibilities include:
- Training, guiding, and where necessary, disciplining drivers and van assistants
- Implementing route-riding strategies to ensure frequent customer visits
- Assessing driver performance and providing coaching on areas that require improvement
This promotes strong team performance and consistent customer service delivery.
6. Monitoring Trade Prices
To stay competitive, the Channel Representative must:
- Conduct weekly price surveys for informal trade markets
- Monitor recommended selling prices and implement the company’s pricing strategy
This ensures pricing remains aligned with broader market trends.
7. Building and Maintaining Customer Relationships
Strong relationships are key to this role. Duties include:
- Driving sales growth and increasing market share in general trade stores
- Developing strategies, together with the Informal Sales Representative, to secure new business
- Handling customer queries and complaints professionally
- Ensuring that merchandising meets company standards
- Providing field intelligence and helping optimise customer routes
This supports sustainable growth and customer retention.
Why This Role Matters
The Channel Representative serves as a vital link between the business, its customers, and the distribution teams. By ensuring efficient delivery, accurate reporting, and strong customer relationships, this role directly contributes to business growth and customer satisfaction. It is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and want to play an active role in commercial operations.