Sales manager specialty chemicals

Sales Manager, Africa - Industrial Chemicals

remote position, based in France

Company Overview

A privately owned business leading chemical trader/distributor with subsidiaries and employees worldwide.


Job overview

We are seeking an experienced Sales Manager to join the global trading team, specialising in industrial chemicals.

In this role, you will drive the growth in Africa by expanding both their client and product base, strengthening the position as the leading chemical trader/distributor on the continent.

You will leverage your industry expertise and network, to manage existing accounts, forge new partnerships, and implement targeted sales and trading strategies that reflect commitment to excellence and growth.


Key Responsibilities


Drive Sales Growth:

Develop and execute sales strategies to increase the market share and expand the client base, focusing on high-potential markets.


Client Acquisition and Relationship Management:

Identify and engage potential clients, cultivating long-term relationships with key stakeholders to foster loyalty and support sustainable growth.


Sales Negotiations:

Engage in daily sales activities, negotiating contracts and payment terms with clients in a fast-paced environment to drive timely closures and ensure customer satisfaction.


Account Management:

Oversee existing accounts, ensuring the delivery of high-quality service, technical support, and timely responses to customer inquiries.


Product Portfolio Expansion:

Collaborate with internal teams to expand the product portfolio based on regional market needs.


Market Analysis and Strategy Development:

Conduct regular market analyses to identify emerging trends, competitor activities, price fluctuations, supply-demand dynamics, and client needs, adapting strategies to maintain a competitive advantage.


Supply Chain Coordination:

Oversee your assigned client service team, monitor logistics processes, and ensure on-time deliveries that meet client expectations.


Frequent Travel for Client Visits:

Travel extensively across the continent to meet with clients and stakeholders, building and maintaining strong relationships while gaining on-the-ground insights into local market needs.


Sales Targets and Forecasting:

Set and track regional sales targets, providing accurate forecasting and regular performance reports to senior management to inform strategic decision-making.


Risk Management:

Proactively assess and mitigate risks, including price volatility, supply chain disruptions, payment terms, credit lines, and geopolitical factors, ensuring sustainable sales growth.


Reporting & Analysis:

Prepare regular reports and track key performance metrics, evaluating both client and product performance to support data-driven decision-making.


Collaboration with Cross-functional Teams:

Work closely with logistics, finance, marketing, and legal teams to ensure seamless operations.


Regulatory and Compliance Oversight:

Stay updated on local regulatory and compliance requirements, ensuring all sales activities align with relevant standards and company policies.


Promote the brand and core values:

Act as an ambassador, upholding the company's values and reputation in all client interactions and industry engagements.


Qualifications and Skills:


* Bachelors degree in Business Administration, International trade, Finance, Economics, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
* Proven experience in international trading/sales, particularly in industrial chemicals.
* Proficiency in English; good knowledge in French is preferred, any additional languages can be an advantage.
* In-depth knowledge of industrial chemicals, trading practices, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
* Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
* Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret market data, identify trends, and make strategic decisions.
* Ability to excel in a fast-paced, dynamic, multinational environment and adapt to changing market conditions.
* Willingness to travel up to 50% of the time to meet with clients and stakeholders across the continent.


Interested to learn more?

Contact Jenny Böhnlein

Email: Jennyboehnlein@astrantiatalent.com

Phone: +49 176 31196980