Van Sales Resresentatives (VSR'S)

How to Apply: Send your application to careers@treasurecomms.com with the subject line "Van Sales Rep - Kenya VSR".

Prove You Can Move Stock and Coach a Field Team

Van Sales Representative roles in FMCG live or die on route discipline and outlet-level execution. Hiring managers will screen for evidence that you have personally hit distribution targets, managed stock movement, and handled tough customer escalations in the field.

1. Quantify your sales and distribution wins: On your CV, replace vague duties with numbers. State the monthly volume or value you sold, the number of outlets you covered, and the percentage growth you achieved. For example, "Grew route sales from KES 1.2M to KES 1.8M in six months across 45 outlets." Hiring managers for VSR roles scan for proof that you understand targets, not just tasks.

2. Show FMCG or General Trade exposure: Even if your experience is in a different sector, highlight any fast-moving consumer goods or general trade work. Mention specific product categories, van loading routines, and how you minimized returns or damages. If you have not worked in FMCG, explain how your sales approach transfers, such as managing high-volume, low-margin products.

3. Prepare for route and stock questions: Expect interview questions like "How do you plan your daily route?" and "What do you do when a key outlet is out of stock?" Prepare concrete examples of how you prioritized outlets, coordinated with warehouse teams, and reduced stock-outs. Show that you think about stock rotation and expiry dates, not just pushing volume.

4. Demonstrate coaching and audit ability: This role involves field visits for coaching and audits. Be ready to describe a time you improved a team member's performance through on-the-spot coaching. Explain how you would conduct a quick audit of a van or outlet, what you would check, and how you would give feedback that sticks.

5. Master basic reporting tools: The posting mentions Excel and mobile apps. Before the interview, refresh your ability to create simple sales reports, track daily targets, and use mobile data collection tools. If you have used specific apps like SalesForce or local distributor apps, name them. Bring a sample report if possible, with numbers anonymized.

6. Address the driving licence upfront: A valid driving licence is a must-have. State it clearly on your CV, including the class and years of driving experience. If you have a clean driving record, say so. For a van sales role, your ability to drive safely and manage a vehicle is as important as your selling skills.

7. Show you understand local market dynamics: Research the region you are applying for. Be ready to talk about key outlets, competitor activity, and consumer behavior in that area. For example, mention how you would adjust your pitch for a small duka versus a supermarket. This shows you can hit the ground running without extensive hand-holding.

8. Prove you can handle pressure and escalations: Sales targets and customer complaints can be stressful. Prepare a story about a time you turned around an angry outlet owner or recovered a lost sale. Explain your step-by-step approach to escalations, from listening to resolving and following up. Employers want to see that you stay calm and solution-focused when the heat is on.