Detroit, United States | Posted on 09/29/2026
Our client Proterial America, Ltd. is looking for an Account Executive with a strong track record in technical sales to join their dynamic team in Detroit. The ideal candidate has strong industry knowledge, a consultative sales approach, and the ability to manage complex customer relationships in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.
This role will support and grow their Magnetic Materials Division (MM) in the Detroit, MI region. This role is designed for a seasoned technical salesperson with knowledge of electric motors, their applications, and magnetic materials. It will have a strong presence within the automotive, electrification, and industrial manufacturing sectors and focus.
Job Functions
- Own and grow strategic accounts within the automotive, EV, and industrial sectors, with a focus on long-term revenue expansion and market penetration
- Develop and execute multi-year account strategies, including business planning, forecasting, and portfolio growth
- Serve as a trusted technical advisor to customers, translating complex magnetic material capabilities into practical application solutions
- Lead high-level customer engagements, including executive meetings, contract negotiations, and technical discussions
- Identify and drive new business opportunities in permanent magnet electric motors and their applications
- Partner with engineering and R&D teams to align product development with customer needs and emerging market trends
- Coordinate closely with global teams (including Japan and other subsidiaries) to ensure alignment on product strategy, pricing, and delivery
- Analyze market dynamics, including competitors, technology shifts, and customer roadmaps, to inform business decisions
- Oversee forecasting accuracy, pipeline development, and CRM management (HubSpot preferred)
- Support resolution of complex customer issues related to quality, performance, and delivery, acting as an escalation point when needed
- Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and customer sites
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Technical understanding of magnetic materials (e.g. neodymium, ferrite) and their applications
- Knowledge of automotive electrification, EV systems, robotics, and motor design principles
- Ability to engage in high-level technical discussions with engineers and procurement teams
- Demonstrated success in managing large, complex, multi-million-dollar accounts
- Strong business acumen, including ROI analysis, forecasting, and product lifecycle management
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and influencing skills, including executive-level presence
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and operate effectively in a global, matrixed organization
- Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive, strategic mindset
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Materials Science, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- 10+ years of experience in technical sales, account management, or business development
- Proven experience within magnetic materials, advanced materials, or related industrial sectors
- Strong background supporting automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, or industrial manufacturing customers
- Demonstrated ability to close complex, high-value deals and drive long-term partnerships
- Experience working in a cross-cultural/global environment