How much does a Sales Executive make in Germany?

Are you considering a career in sales? Here’s everything you need to know about how much a Sales Executive makes in Germany.

In Germany, Sales Executive is a job title given to a junior to mid-level professional who typically reports to a Sales Manager or Area Sales Manager, Head of Sales or Sales Director depending on the structure of the business’s sales team. Traditionally, their previous job title was Sales Assistant and the next step in their career path is becoming a Senior Sales Executive.

• What is the average Sales Executive salary in Germany?
• How does a Sales Executive salary range by sector in Germany?
• What benefits are available to Sales Executives in Germany?
• What other factors affect salaries for Sales Executives in Germany?
• How does company size impact salary levels for Sales Executives in Germany?
• How can Sales Executives in Germany negotiate a higher salary?

What is a Sales Executive’s average salary in Germany?

In Germany, salaries for Sales Executives vary depending on experience level, location, industry demand and sector. Gross salary levels typically range from 45,000 to 110,000 EUR per annum, with starting salaries between 45,000 and 65,000 EUR. Experienced Sales Executives can demand salaries closer to 90,000 EUR depending on the role and years of experience.

Sales professionals usually have a total compensation package that includes more than base salary. Typically, base salary makes up 60-80% of their total compensation, while commission takes up the remaining 20-30%. Commission is often based on a percentage of sales made.

Sales Executives might also be eligible for performance-based bonuses when reaching milestones, such as sales targets, new clients or contributing to wider team goals.

What benefits are available to Sales Executives in Germany?

Sales Executives in Germany are usually offered benefits packages alongside their base salary. These might include career development opportunities, company car, healthcare benefits and flexible working arrangements. Benefits can also be financial, such as pension schemes and bonuses.

How does a Sales Executive’s salary range by sector in Germany?

There are some sectors in Germany that provide higher salaries to Sales Executives due to the level of competition and increasing need for sales talent. For example, it’s not uncommon for companies in financial services and technical sales to offer higher salaries to Sales Executives. Salary levels also vary across company size and the perceived value of sales across different sectors.

What other factors affect a Sales Executive salary in Germany?

The main factors that impact a Sales Executive salary in Germany include:

• Years of experience
• Education, qualifications or apprenticeships: Holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, sales, marketing, economics, or another relevant area can help Sales Executives demand higher salaries
• Certificates and training: Professional certificates such as MBA can enhance a Sales Executive’s skillset, helping them stand out against the crowd for higher salaries
• Location: salary levels tend to be higher for roles based in major cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich and Dusseldorf due to competitiveness, innovation, international presence, cost of living and more
• Language: When working in Germany, fluency in German is crucial for communicating internally with the business and externally with clients and other market stakeholders. But candidates with proficiency in English may stand out for higher salaries as the language is widely used across the international business landscape
• Company size and sector

How does company size impact salaries for Sales Executives in Germany?

There can be a large salary range for Sales Executives depending on the size of the company they work for. There are pros and cons of working at different sized companies. For example, smaller firms can often offer flexibility and faster career progression. On the other hand, larger and more established companies can typically offer higher base salaries and larger benefits packages.

How can Sales Executives in Germany negotiate a higher salary?

To negotiate a higher salary, it’s important that Sales Executives thoroughly research their industry’s average salaries. They should highlight their achievements through their CVs and the interview process, articulating what they can offer to the business. There are also soft skills involved in salary negotiations, including confidence and timing. Recruitment consultants are useful during this process as they can guide you on how to achieve the best possible outcomes.

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