Key Account Manager

CLM Search; Michigan; On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A global automotive supplier is seeking a Key Account Manager to enhance relationships with Japanese OEMs in Michigan. This role requires a Bachelor's degree and over 3 years of experience in automotive sales or account management. Responsibilities include expanding client relationships, managing RFQs, and negotiating commercial terms. Candidates should have strong communication skills, familiarity with manufacturing processes, and proficiency in MS Office and CRM systems. Flexibility to travel is expected.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of automotive sales or key account management experience.
• Experience with Japanese OEMs like Toyota, Nissan, or Honda.
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Act as primary interface for Japanese OEM and Tier 1 accounts.
• Develop long-term customer relationships and expand client’s presence in the U.S.
• Lead RFQ and commercial negotiation activities.

Skills

Automotive sales experience

Key account management

Cross-cultural communication

Negotiation skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related discipline

Tools

MS Office

CRM / sales systems

Job description

Key Account Manager

Location: Michigan, USA

About the Client and the Role

Our client is a globally operating automotive supplier with its headquarters in Asia, currently investing significantly in expanding its North American footprint. The business designs and manufactures a broad portfolio of automotive components and systems, supplying customers across multiple vehicle platforms and segments.

As part of its U.S. growth strategy, the company is seeking a Key Account Manager to support and develop relationships with Japanese OEMs and Tier 1 customers based in Michigan. This role will play a critical part in strengthening customer intimacy, supporting localisation efforts, and driving long-term commercial growth in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the primary commercial interface for assigned Japanese OEM and Tier 1 customer accounts
• Develop and strengthen long-term customer relationships, supporting the client’s expansion strategy in the U.S.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within existing and target customer platforms
• Lead RFQ, quotation, and commercial negotiation activities in collaboration with global and regional teams
• Ensure all commercial targets are met, including pricing, margins, ROI, and investment approvals
• Develop customer-specific account strategies aligned with regional and global objectives
• Coordinate closely with engineering, program management, operations, and finance teams to support customer requirements
• Maintain accurate sales forecasting, volume planning, and account reporting

Monitor customer strategies, competitive activity, and market trends within the Japanese automotive sector

Plan and participate in regular customer meetings and business reviews

Ensure customer specifications, RFQ inputs, and commercial data are clearly communicated and maintained within internal systems

Maintain strict confidentiality and uphold professional standards in all customer interactions

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related discipline
• Minimum 3+ years of automotive sales or key account management experience
• Prior experience managing Japanese OEM or Tier 1 customer accounts, such as Toyota, Nissan, Honda, or equivalent organisations
• Strong understanding of automotive products, manufacturing processes, and programme lifecycles
• Proven commercial and negotiation capability within an OEM-facing environment
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to operate effectively in a cross-cultural, international organisation
• Japanese language skills advantageous, but not essential
• Proficiency in MS Office and CRM / sales systems
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required

About CLM

At CLM, we’re obsessed with creating a better executive search experience for our candidates and clients in the automotive industry. With over 25 years of international experience providing staffing solutions at C-Suite, Leadership, and Management level, we go above and beyond to ensure your needs always come first.

Unfortunately, due to the high level of applications, we are not physically able to respond to every candidate. Please follow our CLM careers page for regular job updates, and we hope to support you with your next venture:

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Motor Vehicle Manufacturing

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