Key Account Chemical Specialist - pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal - Watershed Consulting

Job title: Technical Sales Representative

Description

Role Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Sales Representative to drive the growth of our industrial product portfolio. As a Key Account Chemical Specialist, you will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, building strong client relationships, and providing expert consultation on chemical applications.

This role requires a strong technical background and the ability to match chemical solutions to various materials, including wood, plastic, paper, cartons, and boards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Sales & Business Development

• Meet and exceed monthly and annual sales targets by developing and implementing strategies to increase market share.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the industrial sector.
• Proactively follow up on leads within 24 hours to ensure timely conversion.

2. Customer Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing clients through exceptional customer service and product training as needed.
• Ensure customer needs are met through tailored chemical solutions that cater to their specific requirements.

3. Technical Consultation & Product Knowledge

• Collaborate with the laboratory team to develop competitive chemical solutions that meet industry standards.
• Advise customers on the best chemical applications based on material types and requirements, ensuring optimal results.
• Stay updated on industry trends and competitor offerings to maintain a competitive edge.

4. Account Management & Administration

• Oversee accurate stock management and ensure timely order processing to meet customer demands.
• Assist with debt collection and address customer queries professionally to resolve any issues efficiently.
• Maintain accurate reporting and documentation to track performance and identify areas for improvement.

5. Compliance & Operations Support

• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure seamless distribution and logistics, adhering to company policies and safety regulations.
• Attend trade shows, promotions, and industry events as required to expand the company's network and visibility.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

To excel in this role, you should possess the following qualifications and experience:

• Education:
• A minimum of Grade 12 (Matric) is essential.
• A tertiary diploma/qualification in Sales, Marketing, or a related technical field is advantageous.
• Experience:
• A minimum of 5 years of technical sales experience in plastics, paper & packaging, chemicals, or a related industry is required.
• A proven track record in business development and sales is essential.
• Knowledge of water-based, solvent, and hotmelt chemicals is advantageous.
• Experience using Salesforce or similar CRM software is advantageous.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong Interpersonal & Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are required to build strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike.
• Results-Driven Approach: A self-motivated and proactive approach is necessary to drive sales growth and meet targets.
• Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail and accuracy is required to maintain accurate records and reports.
• Team Player: A collaborative mindset and willingness to work as part of a team are essential to achieving shared goals.

Technical Expertise:

• A strong background in technical/industrial sales is required.
• In-depth knowledge of chemicals and their applications across different materials is essential.
• Experience working with laboratory teams to develop tailored chemical solutions is highly advantageous.

Additional Requirements:

• A valid driver's license is required for occasional travel within the region.
• A willingness to work occasionally on weekends for trade shows and promotions is necessary.