✅ Attention Job Seekers: Be sure to read through the entire post for important details! You'll find the application link or email provided at the end of the post.
Jonathan Ball Publishers invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Sales Administration Assistant vacancy. The closing date for applications is 2 October 2026.
About the role
Jonathan Ball Publishers needs a reliable, organised youngster to help the sales team in Johannesburg. The job is permanent and perfect for anyone who likes keeping things tidy, chatting in clear English, and is curious about books and publishing. You will work behind the scenes, making sure sales paperwork is ready, answering simple questions from customers, and keeping the company’s data straight.
What you will do day‑to‑day
- Put together sales kits and order forms that will be shown to book stores and distributors.
- File and hand out sales documents to the right people.
- Answer questions from the customer‑service team and from buyers quickly and politely.
- Talk to partners in the UK and the US to collect details needed for sales kits.
- Create stock lists that the sales crew can use.
- Help sales reps with any admin requests they have.
- Build simple digital slides or other sales‑support materials.
- Enter and update information in the company’s computer system.
- Carry out general secretarial duties such as taking notes, booking meetings, and organising files.
- Keep all sales‑related paperwork current and easy to find.
- Pitch in with any extra admin tasks the sales team might need.
What you need to succeed
- Very good spoken and written English – you must be able to write clear emails and talk confidently on the phone.
- A basic knowledge of books or the South African book market is a plus, but not a must.
- Friendly people‑skills – you’ll be dealing with customers, colleagues, and overseas partners.
- Excellent organising abilities – you must juggle several tasks without dropping the ball.
- Strong admin talent – detail‑oriented work like making order forms and stock lists should feel natural.
- Good command of Microsoft Office, especially Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Comfortable using the internet, email, and basic computer systems.
- An eye for detail – mistakes in sales kits or data can cause problems later.
- Ability to meet deadlines while keeping work accurate.
- Basic design sense is helpful when you help with digital presentations.
- Professional, dependable, and able to work well in a team.
- A genuine interest in publishing, books, or the local book trade will give you an edge.
Why you might like this job
- Real‑world experience – You’ll see how a publishing house works and support a busy sales department.
- Skill building – Strengthen your Microsoft Office, data‑entry, and customer‑service abilities.
- International exposure – Communicate with contacts in the UK and the US, adding a global touch to your résumé.
- Competitive pay – A salary that matches market rates, plus medical aid and retirement fund membership.
- Equal opportunity – Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups, in line with employment equity guidelines.
How to apply
If you think you fit the description and want to start a career in publishing, click the link below and fill out the short online form. Remember, the deadline is 2 October 2026, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Apply for the Sales Administration Assistant position
Jonathan Ball Publishers is a leading independent publisher in South Africa, known for bringing popular British and American titles to local readers. Join us and be part of a team that loves books as much as you do.