Food Technical Sales Lead

POSITION SUMMARY

The Technical Sales Lead will assume a central role in spearheading the progression of high-quality, technology-driven new product opportunities through the sales funnel to successful commercial closure. Their primary responsibility lies in driving the identification and development of high value opportunities, leveraging their technical expertise in Food Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or related fieldcoupled with exceptional customer facing and sales acumen. This individual will actively participate in technical and commercial lead-generation activities, as well as collaborating closely with the AAT lead to capitalize on specific customer and market events.

Operating within a matrixed organizational structure, the Technical Lead will seamlessly connect with the Research and Development (R&D) team to ensure that technical insights are effectively integrated into the technical and commercial development process. Their strategic alignment with the AAT team leader is crucial, as they work collaboratively to align technical solutions with commercial objectives. With a strong background in R&D and specialized skills in Food formulations, technical service & development, and technical selling, the Technical Lead brings a unique combination of holistic customer first focus and expertise to the team.

POSITION SCOPE

As the Technical Sales Lead within our Account Aligned Team – Sales team (AAT), your role is instrumental in navigating the intricate landscape of new product development and technical solution & sales, serving as a cornerstone for the team's success. You are a key element, providing invaluable expertise and insight that directly impacts our ability to secure and manage complex business deals. Reporting to R&D and working in the matrix directly with the AAT Team Leader and team, you possess the leadership and drive necessary to ensure business objectives are not only met but exceeded.

Integrated seamlessly within our matrix structure, you are the bridge between our innovative solutions and the specific technical needs of our clients. Working collaboratively with Research and Development (R&D), and with other team members on the Account aligned Team, you ensure a cohesive approach towards achieving our collective goal of exceptional sales performance.

Your strategic vision will align technical intricacies with commercial objectives, propelling the team towards quality growth while maximizing opportunities within existing business relationships. You are not just a technical expert; you are a relationship architect, forging deep connections and building trust with key decision-makers. Your genuine understanding of their technical requirements and aspirations fosters enduring partnerships that go beyond mere transactions.

Your initiatives to identify and capitalize on emerging technical trends are pivotal in driving new business opportunities and solidifying our position as innovators within the market. Your leadership and drive ensure that the team remains at the forefront of technical sales excellence, enhancing our credibility and solidifying our position as a formidable force in the competitive landscape.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: 

1.   Technical Selling:

• Effectively communicate and demonstrate the technical aspects of our Food  products (consumables and equipment offerings) as well as field service to potential clients.

• Translate complex technical information into compelling value propositions that resonate with diverse audiences (Maintenance, Operations, Site Leaders, Procurement)

• Design, coordinate and lead customer trials to demonstrate operational efficiency improvements (e.g. higher yield/lower scrap, enhanced product quality, more uptime, extended pan coating lifetime, reduced cleaning, better sanitation, etc).

2.  R&D and Technical Marketing Collaboration:

• Provide feedback from client interactions (including product development requests (PDRs)) to facilitate and accelerate the product development process.

• Work closely with the R&D team to stay abreast of the latest technical advancements and insights.

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