Account Executive Salary in Johannesburg

Comprehensive salary insights for Account Executive positions in Johannesburg, updated November 2025.

Median Base Salary
R714 938

per year

Median Commission
R515 063

uncapped structure

Total Compensation
R1 230 001

base + commission

Experience Level
mid

career stage

Salary Range Overview
Base salary range from entry to top earners
Entry Level
R357 469
Median
R714 938
Senior/Top Earners
R1 072 407

How much can you earn in Johannesburg? What's the commission structure like? This comprehensive salary guide answers your questions about Account Executive salaries in Johannesburg with real market data.

This comprehensive salary guide provides detailed insights into Account Executivecompensation in Johannesburg. Our data is compiled from 2025market research across multiple sources to ensure accuracy and relevance.

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Estimate your earning potential as a Account Executive in Johannesburg
0 years15+ years
Below targetExceeds target
Estimated Base SalaryR822 179
Estimated CommissionR592 322
Total CompensationR1 414 501

Note: These are estimates based on market data for Johannesburg. Actual salaries may vary based on company size, specific industry, and individual negotiation.

Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
How compensation changes with experience in Johannesburg

Entry Level

0-2 years experience

R922 501

total compensation

Base Salary

R536 204

Est. Commission

R386 297

+R307 500 potential increase to next level

Mid LevelCurrent

3-5 years experience

R1 230 001

total compensation

Base Salary

R714 938

Est. Commission

R515 063

+R369 000 potential increase to next level

Senior Level

6-10 years experience

R1 599 001

total compensation

Base Salary

R929 419

Est. Commission

R669 582

+R369 001 potential increase to next level

Executive Level

10+ years experience

R1 968 002

total compensation

Base Salary

R1 143 901

Est. Commission

R824 101

Note: These figures are estimates based on market data. Actual salaries may vary based on company size, performance, and specific industry factors.

Commission Structure Details
Understanding the commission component for Account Executive roles

Commission Structure

uncapped

Median Commission

R515 063

About Uncapped Commission

No upper limit on commission, rewarding high performers with unlimited earning potential.

Minimum Commission

R206 025

~29% of base salary

Median Commission

R515 063

Most common earning

Maximum Commission

R824 101

~115% of base salary

Commission Earning Potential

Conservative Estimate (25th percentile)R920 963
Median Total (50th percentile)R1 230 001
High Performer (75th percentile)R1 539 039
Location Factors
How Johannesburg impacts compensation for Account Executive positions

Cost of Living

Johannesburg cost of living index: 115. Industry benefits offset expenses.

Market Presence

Johannesburg has strong pharmaceutical sector presence

Location-Specific Insights

  • pharmaceutical sector offers premium compensation in Johannesburg
  • Specialized industry knowledge commands higher rates
  • Johannesburg is a major hub for pharmaceutical
  • Industry-specific commission structures apply

City-Specific Considerations

As a major city, Johannesburg typically offers higher salaries compared to smaller towns, but this is balanced by higher living costs. Consider commute times, housing costs, and lifestyle preferences when evaluating opportunities.

Career Progression Path
Typical advancement trajectory for Account Executive professionals

Specialization in pharmaceutical accelerates career growth

1

Junior Account Executive

0-2 years experience

R536 204

est. base salary

Key Responsibilities

  • Learn fundamentals
  • Support senior team
  • Build skills
Next step: +R178 734 potential increase
2

Account ExecutiveYou are here

2-5 years experience

R714 938

est. base salary

Key Responsibilities

  • Independent execution
  • Meet objectives
  • Grow expertise
Next step: +R285 975 potential increase
3

Senior Account Executive

5-8 years experience

R1 000 913

est. base salary

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead initiatives
  • Mentor team
  • Strategic input
Next step: +R428 963 potential increase
4

Management Role

8+ years experience

R1 429 876

est. base salary

Key Responsibilities

  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • Business impact

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Account Executive salary in Johannesburg?

The median Account Executive salary in Johannesburg is R714 938 per year. This figure represents the base salary before commission and bonuses.

How much commission can Account Executive earn in Johannesburg?

Commission for Account Executive positions in Johannesburg typically ranges from R206 025 to R824 101, with a median of R515 063. The structure is uncapped.

What is the total compensation for Account Executive in Johannesburg?

Including base salary and commission, the median total compensation is R1 230 001 per year. High performers can earn significantly more with uncapped commission structures.

What factors affect Account Executive salaries in Johannesburg?

Key factors include: pharmaceutical sector offers premium compensation in Johannesburg, Specialized industry knowledge commands higher rates, Johannesburg is a major hub for pharmaceutical, Industry-specific commission structures apply. Johannesburg cost of living index: 115. Industry benefits offset expenses.

What is the career progression for Account Executive?

Specialization in pharmaceutical accelerates career growth

What are the tax implications for Account Executive salaries in Johannesburg?

Annual income R714 938 taxed at applicable rates.

Trusted Salary Data

Our salary insights are compiled from multiple reputable sources to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Last updated: 5 November 2025