Key Account Manager, Regional

Scope: The Key Account Manager (KAM) is responsible for leading and developing the commercial relationship with a major strategic customer in the Automotive Coatings industry. This role drives sustainable, profitable growth by defining a long-term regional account strategy, and ensuring the highest level of customer satisfaction across all locations

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact for the strategic account, building strong, trust-based relationships across customer locations, functions, and leadership levels.
• Develop, own, and continuously refine a comprehensive account strategy focused on sustainable growth, profitability, and long-term partnership.
• Lead pricing strategy and negotiate pricing agreements to ensure competitiveness and margin targets.
• Negotiate commercial contracts at the regional level, ensuring compliant, mutually beneficial, and strategically aligned terms.
• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between global, regional, and local teams such as local account managers, marketing, R&D, and lab.
• Identify and evaluate new business opportunities within the account, including product introductions, new technologies, and expansion into new markets.
• Drive cross-functional initiatives to support innovation, technical collaboration, and customer growth projects

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Business, Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field; advanced degree is a plus.
• Proven experience (3-5 years) in account management, strategic sales, or commercial leadership.
• Experience in the automotive and/or coatings industry preferred but not required.
• Strong negotiation skills with demonstrated success in strategic pricing and contract management.
• Excellent communication skills in English (both written and verbal).
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical abilities and a customer-centric mindset.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across cultures, regions, and functions.
• Willingness to travel to different sites.
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel domestically 20-30%, potential for international travel.
• Ability to speak and interact with others for 90% of workday.
• Valid drivers' license and ability to drive