Port Machinery Sales Manager - Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Port Machinery Sales Manager

Location : Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Reports to : Regional Sales Director – West & Central Africa

Employment Type : Full-time, Permanent

Company Overview

A leading provider of port equipment solutions is expanding its presence across Francophone West Africa. We are seeking a Côte d’Ivoire–based Sales Manager to drive commercial growth at the Port of Abidjan and key regional terminals. The ideal candidate will combine deep market knowledge with strong technical and sales acumen to secure major equipment deals with port authorities, terminal operators, exporters, and logistics groups.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Business Development :

Identify and convert sales opportunities with port authorities, private terminal operators, mining companies, agro-bulk exporters, and major logistics players across Côte d’Ivoire and the wider region.

Sales Cycle Ownership :

Lead the end-to-end sales process—responding to RFQs / RFPs, preparing technical-commercial proposals, conducting product demos, negotiating pricing, and closing contracts in line with annual revenue targets.

Stakeholder Management :

Build and maintain strong relationships with C-level executives, procurement teams, and government stakeholders involved in import regulations, tax / duty exemption schemes, and infrastructure financing.

Project Delivery Coordination :

Collaborate with engineering, finance, logistics, and service teams to ensure successful delivery, installation, commissioning, and customer acceptance of port machinery.

Market Intelligence & Policy Tracking :

Stay informed on port development projects, competitor activity, and regional legislation affecting port operations and logistics, providing regular strategic insights to company leadership.

Brand Representation & Events :

Represent the company at trade shows such as SITL and African Ports Forum, and deliver customer training sessions, technical workshops, and marketing activations.

Candidate Profile

Required Qualifications :

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, International Trade, Logistics, or a related field.

Minimum 5 years’ experience in capital equipment or port solution sales within Côte d’Ivoire or Francophone West Africa.

Technical & Industry Expertise :

In-depth knowledge of port handling equipment such as STS cranes, RTGs, mobile harbour cranes, and heavy-lift machinery.

Familiarity with operational and technical requirements of port terminals and logistics systems.

Relationships & Network :

Existing connections with key entities such as the Port Autonome d’Abidjan, Bolloré / MSC Terminal, APMT, mining and agro-export companies.

Language & Communication :

Fluent in French (native or professional level) and proficient in English.

Strong negotiation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Other Requirements :

Strong commercial mindset with experience in structuring financing and leasing packages.

Willingness to travel regularly within Côte d’Ivoire and neighbouring countries.

Ivorian citizenship or permanent residency required.