Sales Manager Salary in South Africa

Comprehensive salary insights for Sales Manager positions in South Africa, updated November 2025.

Median Base Salary
R575 000

per year

Median Commission
R300 000

uncapped structure

Total Compensation
R875 000

base + commission

Experience Level
senior

career stage

Salary Range Overview
Base salary range from entry to top earners
Entry Level
R287 500
Median
R575 000
Senior/Top Earners
R862 500

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

This comprehensive salary guide provides detailed insights into Sales Managercompensation in South Africa. Our data is compiled from 2025market research across multiple sources to ensure accuracy and relevance.

Personalized Salary Calculator
Estimate your earning potential as a Sales Manager in South Africa
0 years15+ years
Below targetExceeds target
Estimated Base SalaryR661 250
Estimated CommissionR345 000
Total CompensationR1 006 250

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

Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
How compensation changes with experience in South Africa

Entry Level

0-2 years experience

R656 250

total compensation

Base Salary

R431 250

Est. Commission

R225 000

+R218 750 potential increase to next level

Mid Level

3-5 years experience

R875 000

total compensation

Base Salary

R575 000

Est. Commission

R300 000

+R262 500 potential increase to next level

Senior LevelCurrent

6-10 years experience

R1 137 500

total compensation

Base Salary

R747 500

Est. Commission

R390 000

+R262 500 potential increase to next level

Executive Level

10+ years experience

R1 400 000

total compensation

Base Salary

R920 000

Est. Commission

R480 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 Details
Understanding the commission component for Sales Manager roles

Commission Structure

uncapped

Median Commission

R300 000

About Uncapped Commission

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

Minimum Commission

R120 000

~21% of base salary

Median Commission

R300 000

Most common earning

Maximum Commission

R480 000

~83% of base salary

Commission Earning Potential

Conservative Estimate (25th percentile)R695 000
Median Total (50th percentile)R875 000
High Performer (75th percentile)R1 055 000
Location Factors
How South Africa impacts compensation for Sales Manager positions

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.

Career Progression Path
Typical advancement trajectory for Sales Manager professionals

Clear progression path with experience

1

Junior Sales Manager

0-2 years experience

R431 250

est. base salary

Key Responsibilities

  • Learn fundamentals
  • Support senior team
  • Build skills
Next step: +R143 750 potential increase
2

Sales Manager

2-5 years experience

R575 000

est. base salary

Key Responsibilities

  • Independent execution
  • Meet objectives
  • Grow expertise
Next step: +R230 000 potential increase
3

Senior Sales ManagerYou are here

5-8 years experience

R805 000

est. base salary

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead initiatives
  • Mentor team
  • Strategic input
Next step: +R345 000 potential increase
4

Management Role

8+ years experience

R1 150 000

est. base salary

Key Responsibilities

  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • Business impact

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Sales Manager salary in South Africa?

The median Sales Manager salary in South Africa is R575 000 per year. This figure represents the base salary before commission and bonuses.

How much commission can Sales Manager earn in South Africa?

Commission for Sales Manager positions in South Africa typically ranges from R120 000 to R480 000, with a median of R300 000. The structure is uncapped.

What is the total compensation for Sales Manager in South Africa?

Including base salary and commission, the median total compensation is R875 000 per year. High performers can earn significantly more with uncapped commission structures.

What factors affect Sales Manager 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 Sales Manager?

Clear progression path with experience

What are the tax implications for Sales Manager salaries in South Africa?

Annual income R575 000 falls in 39% tax bracket.

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