We are seeking a commercially driven Account Manager to support the growth of our specialty chemicals business across Europe. This role will focus on the sales and business development of additives used in polymer, rubber, and elastomer applications, serving compounders, converters, manufacturers, and distributors throughout the region.
The Account Manager will be responsible for managing existing customer relationships, developing new business opportunities, identifying market trends, and collaborating closely with suppliers and internal technical teams to deliver value-added solutions. The ideal candidate combines strong commercial acumen with technical knowledge of polymers, rubber compounds, and specialty additives.
Key Responsibilities
Business Development & Sales
- Develop and execute a strategic sales plan to grow revenue and profitability across assigned European territories and accounts.
- Identify and secure new business opportunities within polymer, rubber, elastomer, and related manufacturing markets.
- Manage the full sales cycle from prospecting and qualification through negotiation and contract execution.
- Build and maintain relationships with purchasing, technical, R&D, manufacturing, and executive stakeholders.
- Promote a portfolio of specialty additives and performance-enhancing solutions for plastics and rubber applications.
- Drive growth through both direct sales and distribution channels where applicable.
Account Management
- Manage and expand relationships with existing customers to increase wallet share and long-term retention.
- Conduct regular customer visits and business reviews to understand customer needs and uncover new opportunities.
- Coordinate commercial activities, forecasts, pricing discussions, and contract renewals.
- Resolve customer issues proactively while ensuring a high level of service and responsiveness.
Technical & Market Support
- Work closely with suppliers, product managers, and technical specialists to position products effectively.
- Support customers with product selection and application discussions.
- Monitor market trends, competitive activity, raw material developments, and emerging technologies.
- Identify opportunities for new products, market segments, and supplier partnerships.
Commercial Strategy & Reporting
- Develop territory plans, sales forecasts, and opportunity pipelines.
- Maintain accurate customer and opportunity records within CRM systems.
- Prepare regular reports on sales performance, market intelligence, and business development activities.
- Collaborate with leadership to establish pricing strategies and growth initiatives.
Requirements
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Business, or a related field.
- 5+ years of commercial experience within specialty chemicals, polymers, rubber, additives, compounding, or related industries.
- Demonstrated success in B2B technical sales and account management.
- Strong understanding of polymer and/or rubber manufacturing processes and additive technologies.
- Experience selling into manufacturers, compounders, converters, OEMs, or industrial customers.
- Ability to travel extensively throughout Europe (approximately 40–60%).
- Fluent English communication skills.
Preferred
- Existing network within the European plastics, rubber, or specialty chemicals industries.
- Experience with additives such as:
- Processing aids
- Stabilizers
- Antioxidants
- UV additives
- Flame retardants
- Plasticizers
- Impact modifiers
- Coupling agents
- Specialty fillers
- Rubber chemicals
- Additional European language skills (German, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Polish, or Turkish) are highly desirable.
- Experience working with global suppliers and international distribution organizations.