Account Executive Salary in South Africa
Comprehensive salary insights for Account Executive positions in South Africa, updated November 2025.
per year
uncapped structure
base + commission
career stage
Understanding Account Executive salaries in South Africa helps you negotiate better packages and plan your career path. This guide provides the data you need to make confident compensation decisions.
This comprehensive salary guide provides detailed insights into Account Executivecompensation in South Africa. Our data is compiled from 2025market research across multiple sources to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Note: These are estimates based on market data for South Africa. Actual salaries may vary based on company size, specific industry, and individual negotiation.
Entry Level
0-2 years experience
total compensation
Base Salary
R348 750
Est. Commission
R251 250
Mid LevelCurrent
3-5 years experience
total compensation
Base Salary
R465 000
Est. Commission
R335 000
Senior Level
6-10 years experience
total compensation
Base Salary
R604 500
Est. Commission
R435 500
Executive Level
10+ years experience
total compensation
Base Salary
R744 000
Est. Commission
R536 000
Note: These figures are estimates based on market data. Actual salaries may vary based on company size, performance, and specific industry factors.
Commission Structure
Median Commission
R335 000
About Uncapped Commission
No upper limit on commission, rewarding high performers with unlimited earning potential.
Minimum Commission
R134 000
~29% of base salary
Median Commission
R335 000
Most common earning
Maximum Commission
R536 000
~115% of base salary
Commission Earning Potential
Cost of Living
National average cost of living index: 100
Market Presence
Opportunities across all major industries nationwide
Location-Specific Insights
- •National average with regional variations
- •Industry-specific premiums apply
- •Experience significantly impacts earnings
- •Metropolitan areas offer 15-30% premium
National Market Overview
These figures represent the national average across South Africa. Major metropolitan areas like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban typically offer 15-30% premium over the national average, while smaller cities may be 10-20% below.
Clear progression path with experience
Junior Account Executive
0-2 years experience
R348 750
est. base salary
Key Responsibilities
- Learn fundamentals
- Support senior team
- Build skills
Account ExecutiveYou are here
2-5 years experience
R465 000
est. base salary
Key Responsibilities
- Independent execution
- Meet objectives
- Grow expertise
Senior Account Executive
5-8 years experience
R651 000
est. base salary
Key Responsibilities
- Lead initiatives
- Mentor team
- Strategic input
Management Role
8+ years experience
R930 000
est. base salary
Key Responsibilities
- Team leadership
- Strategic planning
- Business impact
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Account Executive salary in South Africa?
The median Account Executive salary in South Africa is R465 000 per year. This figure represents the base salary before commission and bonuses.
How much commission can Account Executive earn in South Africa?
Commission for Account Executive positions in South Africa typically ranges from R134 000 to R536 000, with a median of R335 000. The structure is uncapped.
What is the total compensation for Account Executive in South Africa?
Including base salary and commission, the median total compensation is R800 000 per year. High performers can earn significantly more with uncapped commission structures.
What factors affect Account Executive salaries in South Africa?
Key factors include: National average with regional variations, Industry-specific premiums apply, Experience significantly impacts earnings, Metropolitan areas offer 15-30% premium. National average cost of living index: 100
What is the career progression for Account Executive?
Clear progression path with experience
What are the tax implications for Account Executive salaries in South Africa?
Annual income R465 000 falls in 31% tax bracket.
Sales Representative
Median Salary
R235 000
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Median Salary
R300 000
Real Estate Sales Agent
Median Salary
R280 000
Insurance Sales Agent
Median Salary
R220 000
Car Sales Executive
Median Salary
R180 000
Account Executive
Median Salary
R544 050
Trusted Salary Data
Our salary insights are compiled from multiple reputable sources to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.