A well-established, leading specialty chemicals distributor is seeking a Senior Technical Sales Specialist to drive sales and develop customer relationships within the South African rubber industry. The role focuses on the technical and commercial sales development of raw materials used in rubber manufacturing, providing customers with product expertise, application support and tailored solutions to meet their formulation and production requirements.
Minimum requirements for the role:
Must have a relevant tertiary qualification in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Rubber Technology or a related technical discipline
Minimum 5+ years' experience in technical sales, preferably within the rubber, polymers, chemicals or related manufacturing industries
Sound understanding of rubber raw materials, additives, compounding and manufacturing processes is essential
Must have proven technical sales and business development experience
Strong commercial, negotiation and customer relationship management skills
Excellent technical communication and presentation abilities
Must have a valid driver's license and be willing to travel nationally
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Developing and managing relationships with rubber manufacturers, compounders and industrial customers.
Driving sales of rubber raw materials, additives, chemicals and related products.
Providing technical guidance on product selection, application and formulation requirements.
Identifying new customers, applications and market opportunities within the rubber industry.
Conducting customer visits, technical discussions, product presentations and trials.
Working with customers' technical and production teams to understand formulation and processing challenges.
Liaising with suppliers and internal teams regarding product availability, specifications, technical data and customer requirements.
Monitoring industry trends, competitor activity, raw material developments and pricing.
Preparing quotations, sales forecasts, reports and commercial proposals.
Assisting with product trials and technical evaluations and following up on results.
Resolving technical and commercial customer queries promptly and professionally.
Negotiating pricing and commercial terms while maintaining profitable customer relationships.
Achieving agreed sales, gross margin and business development targets.