Vivo Energy is the company behind the Shell brand in Africa. We are here to offer customers the very best of Shell’s products and services, including supply reliability, technical expertise, and unmatched customer service, in the countries in which we operate. In doing so, we have in place industry-leading health and safety standards, and are committed to delivering Shell’s high-quality fuels and lubricants in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.
We invite suitably qualified individuals to apply for the following position tenable in Gaborone.
Job Summary
- Employer: Vivo Energy Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Sales
- Closing Date: 2026-09-23
Key Responsibilities
- Achieve targets on sales volumes, commercial margin contribution, direct costs and working capital in line with agreed targets
- Identify and actively pursue business opportunities
- Develop and maintain long term commercial relationships with key accounts
- Lead the Commercial team and other interfaces, develop, manage and motivate staff within the organization and ensure that the required competencies are in place to meet current and future business needs
- Manage the customer service centre operations in country.
- Ensure Operational Excellence delivery in B2B.
- Local marketing implementation based on the marketing plans agreed during the planning process.
- Implement channel management strategies
- Responsible for Health and Safety performance
- To manage the provision of technical support
Requirements
- University Degree and previous experience as a Sales Team Leader is mandatory.
- Proven track record of success in Business to Business (B2B) commercial activities and having held bottom line accountability
- Strong technical skills relating to mining, construction and other relevant industrial fuel and lubricants customers
- Proven competence in negotiating and dealing with major clients in country and on a cross border basis
- Strong customer relationship management
- Influencing and leadership capabilities, appropriate to working in an international business
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: apply.workable.com
Original Advert
Source document for this listing, published by Jobs Botswana.
About the Company
Vivo Energy is a British downstream petroleum company with its headquarters in London. It maintains subsidiaries and operations in 23 countries across Africa that encompass the supply, storage, distribution, and retail of a range of petroleum products. Vivo Energy is a Shell and Engen Petroleum licensee and sources, distributes, markets and supplies fuels and lubricants. It was listed on the London Stock Exchange and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and was a constituent of the FTSE 250 Index and of the JSE All Share Index until it was acquired by Vitol Group in July 2022.
Website: https://www.vivoenergy.com/en/where-we-operate/botswana
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Commercial Manager at Vivo Energy Botswana?
A bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field is typically required. Relevant certifications in sales management or petroleum industry training from institutions like BIDPA or regional energy bodies strengthen your profile. Most employers prefer candidates with 5-7 years of experience in B2B sales or fuel retail management.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Commercial Manager in Botswana's fuel retail sector?
You will oversee sales strategy execution, manage key corporate accounts, and lead a team of sales representatives across Gaborone and regional depots. Daily tasks include negotiating supply contracts with mining and transport companies, analyzing market trends, and ensuring compliance with Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority standards. Regular travel to sites like Francistown and Maun is common.
How does workplace culture in Botswana affect this Commercial Manager role?
Botswana's business culture values relationship-building and respect for hierarchy, so expect formal meetings with senior stakeholders and emphasis on long-term partnerships. Punctuality is appreciated, though flexibility around community and family obligations is generally understood. English is the business language, but Setswana language skills help with local team and client relationships.
What career progression opportunities exist for Commercial Managers in Botswana's energy sector?
Strong performers typically advance to Regional Commercial Director roles covering Southern Africa operations or move into General Management positions. Some transition to consultancy or join regulatory bodies like BERA. International mobility within pan-African energy groups is increasingly common for experienced managers.
What benefits should I expect as a Commercial Manager working for a major employer in Botswana?
Standard packages usually include medical aid coverage through providers like Botswana Life or Pula Medical Aid, pension contributions to BPOPF or private schemes, and annual leave of 20-25 days. Company vehicles or fuel allowances are typical given the travel requirements. Performance bonuses and phone allowances are common in sales-focused roles.
How do I apply for Commercial Manager positions at energy companies in Botswana, and what do employers prioritize?
Applications are submitted through company career portals, recruitment agencies like HRMC, or professional networks like LinkedIn. Employers prioritize proven track records in B2B sales, existing relationships with corporate clients in mining or logistics, and demonstrated knowledge of Botswana's petroleum regulations. A clean driver's license and willingness to relocate regionally are often essential.
