Account Manager (m/f/d)

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GKN Automotive is a world-leading global automotive technology company at the forefront of innovation. Its origins date back to 1759 and for the last 70 years it has been putting key technologies into series production.

We are the trusted partner for most of the world’s automotive companies, specialising in developing, building, and supplying market-leading drive systems and advanced ePowertrain technologies.

GKN Automotive is part of Dowlais Group plc, a specialist engineering group focused on the automotive sector.

Role Purpose

The Account Manager acts as the primary point of contact for all commercial activities related to a dedicated OES customer base. This role ensures that customer requirements—including inquiries, concerns, and business opportunities—are effectively managed. The focus is on continuously improving customer profitability and proactively mitigating potential issues.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent the customer within GKN Automotive by sharing relevant information with internal functions and ensuring follow-up on customer matters.
• Identify and pursue re-pricing opportunities throughout the part lifecycle to address margin risks.
• Align customer strategies with relevant serial production account managers.
• Maintain accurate customer records (., pricing, contracts) and ensure coordination with internal stakeholders.
• Review customer RFQs and related documents, coordinate feasibility and contractual checks with the relevant departments, and support documentation for audits (., ISO).
• Prepare quotations and technical/commercial offers.
• Contribute to account planning processes such as the 5-Year Plan, budgeting, and demand planning.
• Monitor sales performance versus budget; analyze deviations and recommend corrective actions.
• Understand and review customer contracts and agreements, and seek legal input where needed.
• Follow internal authorization and escalation procedures, aligning priorities with the Account Director.
• Comply with GKN Automotive’s standard processes, policies, and corporate guidelines (., Health & Safety, Environmental, Anti-Bribery & Corruption).
• Develop and maintain an in-depth understanding of the customer’s technical and strategic requirements, market positioning, purchasing behavior, and competitive landscape.
• Foster strong relationships with customers through regular visits and participation in technical events.
• Track and improve customer satisfaction and perception of GKN Automotive.
• Lead or participate in commercial negotiations (., pricing, design changes, supply chain shifts), including preparation of detailed sales plans and supporting documentation.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or another relevant field—or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience in the automotive industry or related technical/commercial environment.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to manage, interpret, and summarize complex data sets (cost, budget, market data).
• Ability to develop business cases and evaluate financial scenarios.
• Proficiency in Excel and business systems.
• Knowledge of demand planning, pricing strategies, budgeting, and cost analysis.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in customer-facing roles and commercial negotiations.
• Strong skills in using detailed cost models to support decision-making.
• Fluency in English is required; German language skills are an advantage.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required by the role. GKN Automotive is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
• High level of initiative, resilience, logical thinking, and proactive communication.

What We Offer

• Flexible working hours and a flextime model to support a healthy balance between work and personal life.
• A competitive compensation package based on the IG Metall collective agreement for North Rhine-Westphalia, including holiday and Christmas bonuses.
• A challenging, dynamic, and varied role within a supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Attractive employee benefits, including a company pension scheme and supplementary health insurance.
• The option to work from home, depending on role requirements.
• Free on-site parking.
• Complimentary hot beverages and access to water dispensers.