Key Account Manager

Sterling Specialty Chemicals; United States; On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chemical manufacturer in the United States is seeking an experienced account manager with a strong background in specialty chemicals. The role requires managing a portfolio and developing strategies to grow accounts, while collaborating with technical teams to deliver solutions. Candidates should have a solid 5-year background in sales and account management, coupled with a relevant degree. This full-time position offers pathways for advancement in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in sales, account management, or business development in specialty chemicals or related fields.
• Proven track record in managing large accounts and technical sales.
• Experience with polyacrylamide chemistries is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow a portfolio of strategic accounts.
• Execute territory sales strategies aligned with company goals.
• Lead pricing negotiations and build customer relationships.

Skills

Sales acumen

Technical knowledge of chemicals

Strong communication skills

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or Business

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Job description

Account Management

• Manage and grow a portfolio of strategic accounts within the Water Treatment, F&B, and Mining markets.
• Execute territory and account-level sales strategies aligned with Sterling’s revenue and margin goals.
• Identify, pursue, and close new business opportunities through market research, networking, and direct outreach.
• Lead pricing negotiations, proposals, and contracts with a focus on long-term customer value and profitability.
• Build deep relationships with customer stakeholders at multiple levels—operations, technical, and executive.
• Monitor and report on account performance, pipeline health, and customer satisfaction.
• Prepare and present sales forecasts, quarterly business reviews, and strategic account plans.

Technical & Solution Delivery

• Collaborate closely with technical and product development teams to deliver fit‑for‑purpose chemical programs.
• Support customer onboarding, field trials, performance optimization, and issue resolution.
• Promote sustainable, efficient, and safe chemical solutions that align with operational KPIs and environmental targets.

Strategic & Business Development

• Contribute to Sterling’s North American go‑to‑market strategy and commercial roadmap.
• Track competitive dynamics, market trends, and technology shifts to shape proactive commercial strategies.
• Identify cross‑selling and upselling opportunities across the broader Sterling product portfolio.
• Stay informed on relevant U.S. regulations, industry certifications, and customer compliance standards.

Operational Excellence & Collaboration

• Maintain accurate sales activity and opportunity tracking in SAP and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Work cross‑functionally with R&D, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Technical Services to ensure aligned execution.
• Represent Sterling at industry conferences, customer events, trade shows, and internal sales meetings.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or Business; equivalent industry experience also considered.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in sales, account management, or business development in specialty chemicals, industrial water treatment, F&B, or mining.
• Proven track record of managing complex, multimillion‑dollar accounts and closing technical sales.
• Experience with polyacrylamide chemistries and treatment program design is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in SAP, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills.
• Self‑motivated, accountable, and able to navigate a matrixed, fast‑moving organization.
• Be directly responsible for driving revenue and shaping Sterling’s regional commercial success.
• Influence go‑to‑market decisions through real‑time customer and market insights.
• Grow into senior commercial, strategic accounts, or leadership roles as part of Sterling’s long‑term talent strategy.

Candidates must reside East of the Mississippi River.

• No agencies please.

Seniority Level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

• Full‑time

Job Function

• Industries: Chemical Manufacturing