Technical Sales Engineer

Marysville, Ohio

This position is responsible for spearheading the expansion of our Outside Group Sales (OGS) business in the United States for the Metals, Plastics, and Recycling (MPR) Department of Honda Trading. This critical role will be responsible for developing and implementing innovative sales, marketing, and growth strategies for new OGS business models. This initiative aligns with Honda Trading's strategic objective to diversify revenue streams beyond traditional Honda-related businesses, while significantly enhancing market share and customer satisfaction in this emerging sector.

The Technical Sales Engineer / Outside Sales Development Lead plays a pivotal role in identifying, developing, and closing new business opportunities within this specific sector. This requires a proactive and strategic approach to sales, emphasizing the cultivation of strong client relationships, a deep understanding of their unique needs, and the delivery of tailored material supply solutions. Ideal candidates will possess excellent communication and negotiation skills, a proven track record in sales or business development within the automotive or commodity specific industries, and a strong understanding of industry trends and competitive landscapes.

Establish New Business Models & Structure:

• Cultivate and foster strong relationships with raw materials suppliers.
• Develop and negotiate supply agreements for new Outside Group Sales (OGS) business, including material sourcing and pricing.
• Conduct proactive customer visits to understand potential customer needs and requirements, identify and obtain Requests for Quotations (RFQs), and determine required material specifications and volumes.
• Establish new pricing models tailored to the needs of new customer segments and define and implement appropriate sales terms and conditions.
• Negotiate and finalize rates, product specifications, service agreements, and contract amendments with customers, suppliers, and other vendors.
• Collaborate with internal colleagues to facilitate business creation and ensure a smooth transition to customer service.
• Establish and implement necessary Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) for OGS business.
• Proactively identify and mitigate potential risks.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive selling price and cost matrices, incorporating current market conditions and industry trends.

Business & Relationship Development:

• Spearhead the creation of innovative business models within the non-ferrous metals, plastics, and recycling sectors, including formulating strategic growth plans.
• Collaborate with existing and potential clients to identify challenges, propose solutions, and develop new OGS revenue streams.
• Offer creative solutions to optimize material usage and client inventory management.
• Introduce HT's value-added services to strengthen existing client relationships.
• Deliver technical presentations and lead MPR business development initiatives with clients and suppliers.
• Champion HTNA business promotion and foster strong relationships with prospective clients and suppliers.
• Meticulously maintain an updated sales pipeline, tracking interactions and progress with potential clients.
• Proactively initiate contact with prospective clients through phone calls, emails, and in-person meetings.
• Conduct comprehensive needs assessments to gain a deep understanding of client requirements.
• Develop and deliver customized solutions to perfectly match client applications.
• Build and nurture long-term, successful client relationships.

Industry Research & Lead Generation:

• Conduct thorough research and identify potential clients and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) through diverse channels, including online databases, industry publications, networking events, and trade shows.
• Actively participate in industry conferences and seminars to deepen understanding of market dynamics, foster relationships with key suppliers, and identify potential business partnerships.
• Meticulously qualify leads to assess their compatibility with the company's product offerings and service capabilities.
• Continuously monitor market trends, analyze competitor activities, and track industry developments to identify emerging opportunities and inform effective sales strategies.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and actively pursue opportunities for continuous personal and professional growth.
• Participate in relevant training and development programs to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Conduct comprehensive research to understand current market conditions, identify evolving business needs, and assess the competitive landscape.

Strategic Planning & Sales Execution:

• Formulate and implement strategic plans to identify and capitalize on emerging business opportunities.
• Spearhead the conceptualization and development of innovative business models that align with corporate objectives and evolving market dynamics.
• Develop and deliver impactful sales presentations and product demonstrations tailored to specific raw material applications.
• Prepare and present compelling proposals and quotations, negotiating terms to secure profitable business agreements.
• Provide regular and insightful reports on sales activities, pipeline status, and forecasts to management.
• Conduct short-term and long-term forecasting and budgeting analyses to support informed decision-making.

• Minimum Educational Qualifications
  
  
  
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or a Business degree with technical sales experience
  
  
  
  
• Minimum Experience
  
  
  
  • 10-15 years of experience in technical sales, business development, or a related role within the manufacturing, automotive or commodity specific industries.
  
  
  
  
• Other Job-Specific Skills
  
  
  
  • In-depth knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes and its applications.
  • Proven track record of exceeding sales targets and driving significant business growth.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, conflict resolution, and negotiation skills.
  • Exceptional organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize effectively and meet deadlines.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications.
  • Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a high-performing team environment.
  • Strong understanding of general business principles and concepts
  • Proven project management skills with the ability to plan, execute, and monitor projects effectively.
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% of time, including domestic and international travel.