What does a sales director do?

A sales director is a strategic leader responsible for driving revenue growth and establishing a competitive edge in the dynamic B2B market. They craft and implement robust sales strategies that target market expansion and enhance the company’s brand reputation and client relationships.

In the Indian business landscape, this role is pivotal as it bridges the gap between high-level corporate strategy and on-the-ground sales execution.

The role of sales directors involves managing diverse sales teams, setting ambitious yet achievable targets, and ensuring that every aspect of the sales process aligns with the overarching business objectives. With a focus on building and nurturing key corporate relationships, they are crucial to negotiating high-stakes deals, developing key account management and related sales strategies, and ensuring the firm remains agile and resilient.

Sales directors work closely with marketing, product, and executive teams to align sales efforts with business goals. With a deep understanding of B2B sales dynamics and team leadership expertise, they are pivotal in scaling a company’s revenue and maintaining a competitive edge.

Do note that while a sales manager focuses on managing a sales team and day-to-day operations, a sales director is responsible for overall sales strategy and higher-level decision-making. Similarly, a business development manager identifies new business opportunities and partnerships.

Job Description: Template

We’re seeking a results-driven sales director to join our team at [Company X].

As a key member of our leadership team, you will develop and execute sales strategies to drive revenue growth, expand market share, and oversee client relationship management with key accounts. You will also manage sales operations, lead a high-performing team, and ensure sales objectives align with the company’s business goals.

The ideal candidate has a proven track record in sales leadership, strategic planning, and team management. If you’re a strategic thinker with a passion for sales excellence and a results-driven mindset, we encourage you to apply.

We offer an attractive remuneration package with a collaborative work environment, professional growth opportunities, and employee benefits like health insurance, flexible work arrangements, and continuous learning programs.

Objectives of the role

  • Developing and implementing a comprehensive sales strategy to achieve revenue and business growth objectives.
  • Leading, mentoring, and managing a team of sales professionals to drive performance and meet targets.
  • Identifying new business opportunities and expanding key accounts, partnerships, and distribution channels.
  • Analysing sales data, market trends, and competitor activities to refine sales strategies.
  • Establishing and maintaining strong relationships with high-value clients and stakeholders.
  • Collaborating with marketing and product teams to align sales initiatives with business objectives.
  • Overseeing sales operations, including sales forecasting, pipeline management, and CRM optimisation.
  • Setting sales quotas, KPIs, and performance metrics to track progress and drive accountability.
  • Representing the company at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to strengthen brand positioning.
  • Ensuring compliance with sales policies, contracts, and legal regulations.

Your tasks

  • Build and lead a high-performing sales team through hiring, sales training, and coaching.
  • Develop and manage the annual sales budget, pricing strategies, discount policies, and contract negotiations to ensure optimal resource allocation.
  • Drive customer acquisition, retention, and revenue diversification strategies through strategic initiatives.
  • Implement and optimise sales automation tools, CRM software systems, and sales analytics tools to track progress, enhance efficiency, and optimise sales performance.
  • Work with cross-functional teams to improve customer experience and sales conversion rates.
  • Lead contract negotiations and close high-value deals with a strong focus on client relationship management.
  • Establish sales training and development programs to upskill the sales team.
  • Drive digital sales transformation to enhance efficiency, reach, and corporate image.

Required skills and qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Sales, Marketing, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of sales experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership or director role.
  • Demonstrable track record of exceeding sales targets and driving business growth.
  • Experience in B2C and B2B sales, enterprise sales, SaaS, or industry-specific sales.
  • Data-driven mindset with experience in sales analytics tools and CRM software (Salesforce, HubSpot, etc.).
  • Experience in managing sales operations, sales forecasting, and performance tracking.
  • Familiarity with pricing models, revenue forecasting, and contract negotiations.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, mentor, and develop sales teams.
  • Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building abilities.
  • Strong business acumen and strategic planning skills.
  • Leadership and team-building abilities to drive sales excellence.
  • High adaptability in fast-paced, target-driven business environments.

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Business Administration, Sales, Marketing, or a related field.
  • Experience in global sales expansion and managing international markets.
  • Knowledge of digital sales, e-commerce, or omnichannel sales strategies.
  • Understanding of AI-driven sales tools, automation, and data analytics.
  • Expertise in account-based selling and enterprise deal structuring.
  • Proficiency in English, Hindi, and at least one other regional language.