The cost question comes up in every sales leadership conversation. Here is a straight breakdown of what you actually pay — and what you get — across the three main options.
The short answer
An outsourced South African SDR typically costs 55 to 65 percent less than a domestic hire, with a dedicated rep who works only your accounts. You avoid recruitment fees, benefits, equipment, and management overhead.
In-house vs outsourced vs offshore
| Option | Typical monthly cost | Ramp time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-house (UK/US) | £4,000–£6,000+ | 3–6 months | Full control, highest cost |
| Outsourced SA SDR | £1,500–£2,500 | 3 weeks | Dedicated rep, managed service |
| Shared offshore pool | £800–£1,500 | Variable | Lower cost, shared attention |
What is included in an outsourced SA SDR
A managed South African SDR service typically covers:
- Recruitment and vetting
- Training on your playbook and ICP
- CRM and sequencer setup
- Ongoing coaching and QA
- Replacement if the rep does not work out
What to consider
The cheapest option is not always the best value. A dedicated South African rep who ramps in three weeks and books qualified meetings will outperform a cheaper shared pool every time.
Want a cost comparison tailored to your team size and market? Book a call and we will run the numbers with you.