Applications Sales Engineer – Industrial Chemicals

SUMMARY:
The Applications Sales Engineer will be responsible for actively marketing the product range to the industrial sector with the objective of increasing market share and driving revenue growth. The role requires building strong client relationships, identifying new business opportunities

POSITION INFO:

Applications Sales Engineer – Industrial Chemicals
Location: Durban

Package: Basic salary R26000 (negotiable), Company Car, Medical Aid, Pension Fund, Lucrative Commission structure

Role Overview

The Applications Sales Engineer will be responsible for actively marketing the product range to the industrial sector with the objective of increasing market share and driving revenue growth. The role requires building strong client relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and providing technical product recommendations tailored to customer applications.

The incumbent will work closely with internal departments, including the laboratory, operations, and customer service teams, to ensure customers receive optimal solutions and excellent service.

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Business Development

• Achieve and exceed monthly and annual sales targets.
• Actively promote the full basket of products within the industrial sector.
• Identify, develop, and secure new business opportunities to grow market share.
• Maintain a strong sales pipeline and actively pursue new prospects.

Customer Acquisition

• Follow up on all sales leads within 24 hours.
• Conduct client visits to understand operational requirements and propose suitable adhesive solutions.
• Build long-term relationships with new customers.

Technical Consultation

• Assess customer applications and recommend suitable products for materials such as wood, plastic, paper, carton, and boards.
• Provide technical advice and product recommendations based on client needs and operational requirements.
• Collaborate with the laboratory team to develop customized solutions where required.

Product & Industry Knowledge

• Stay informed about industry trends, new technologies, and competitor offerings.
• Support clients with product demonstrations, trials, and training.

Account Management

• Maintain and grow relationships with existing key accounts.
• Manage accounts with annual sales values of approximately R12 million – R14 million.
• Provide product training and ongoing support to clients.
• Monitor customer stock levels and ensure timely replenishment.

Minimum Requirements

Education

• Grade 12 (Matric) – essential
• Tertiary qualification in Sales, Marketing, Business, or a related technical field – advantageous

Experience

• Minimum 5 years sales experience, preferably within:
• Paper & Packaging
• Chemicals
• Related industrial sectors
• Proven experience managing Key Accounts valued at R12 million – R14 million annually.
• Demonstrated track record of business development and portfolio growth.
• Experience using Salesforce or similar CRM systems – advantageous.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to work independently.
• Ability to perform in a fast-paced, target-driven environment.
• Strong team collaboration skills.