Director of Key Accounts

The Director of Key Accounts is responsible for developing and executing strategies to manage and grow our relationships with key clients. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of our industry. The Director of Key Accounts will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction and business growth.

• Client Relationship Management:Develop and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key accounts. Act as the primary point of contact and ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction.
• Client Needs Assessment: Conduct in-depth assessments of client needs and challenges to propose tailored solutions that leverage the company's products and services.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks within key accounts and proactively develop strategies to mitigate them, ensuring continuity and client satisfaction.
• Innovation Advocacy: Promote and advocate for innovative solutions and technologies that align with clients' evolving needs in the food industry, facilitating effective change management.
• Personalized Client Engagement: Design and implement personalized engagement plans for key accounts that include regular check-ins, face-to-face meetings, and tailored communications.
• Strategic Planning:Develop and implement strategic account plans to achieve business objectives. Identify opportunities for growth and work with internal teams to develop solutions.
• Sales Management:Lead the sales process for key accounts, including negotiations, contract management, and closing deals. Achieve or exceed sales targets and KPIs.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:Work closely with product development, marketing, and customer service teams to ensure a cohesive approach to account management.
• Market Analysis:Monitor market trends and competitor activities. Provide insights and recommendations to senior management.
• Reporting:Prepare regular reports on account status, sales performance, and market trends. Present findings to senior management.
• Team Leadership and Development:
• Team Management:Hire top talents. Lead, mentor, and develop a team of account managers. Provide guidance, support, and performance feedback to ensure team members achieve their individual and collective goals.
• Training and Development:Identify training needs and opportunities for professional development within the team. Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Performance Management:Conduct regular performance reviews, set clear objectives, and implement performance improvement plans as necessary. Recognize and reward high performance.
• Resource Allocation:Optimize the allocation of resources within the team to ensure efficient and effective account management. Address any gaps in resources or skills promptly.
• Team Building:Cultivate a collaborative and positive team environment. Encourage open communication, teamwork, and the sharing of best practices.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Engineering, Food Science, or a related field.
• Industry Knowledge: Deep knowledge of food industry regulations, quality standards, and emerging technologies impacting the sector, which enables informed decision-making and strategy development.
• Networking Skills: Proven ability to build and leverage a robust professional network within the food processing and capital equipment industries to drive business development.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in account management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Experience in the food processing or Capital Equipment industry. Experience in with multiple
• Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis to create and manage account plans effectively.
• Negotiation Skills: Exceptional negotiation skills with a track record of closing complex deals and managing contract compliance. Experience with Strategic selling, solution selling and other sales methods.
• Digital Literacy: Familiarity with digital sales tools and platforms that enhance client engagement and streamline account management processes.
• Skills:
  • Strong leadership and team management skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strategic thinker with strong analytical skills.
  • Proven ability to drive sales and achieve targets.
  • Proficient in CRM software (preference for SalesForce) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Attributes:
  • Customer-focused with a strong commitment to client satisfaction.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • High level of integrity and professionalism.
  • Results Orientation: A keen focus on achieving measurable outcomes, with a proactive approach to problem-solving and overcoming challenges.
  • Passion for the Industry: A genuine interest and passion for the food industry, demonstrating commitment to advancing industry best practices.
• Travel Requirement : From 25% to 50%

• 5-6 Direct Reports
• Will exercise discretion and independent judgment.