Key Account Manager - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Travel reimbursement

Health benefits

Professional development

Exposure to cutting-edge automation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Key Account Manager to manage strategic accounts in Vereeniging and the Gauteng region. You will grow revenue by deepening relationships with major industrial clients and tailoring automation solutions.

The role requires a technical background, strong communication, and a track record of closing complex deals across industrial automation. Travel within the area is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, business or related technical field.
• Minimum 4 years in key account management or similar client-facing sales role.
• Proven track record in growing large industrial accounts.
• Strong technical understanding of automation systems and industrial tech.
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient with CRM software and MS Office.
• Willingness to travel within the Vereeniging area.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic account plans for key industrial clients.
• Build long-term relationships with decision-makers and stakeholders.
• Identify upsell and cross-sell opportunities for automation products.
• Position automation solutions to meet client objectives.
• Conduct regular business reviews to ensure value realization.
• Coordinate with technical and service teams for delivery and support.
• Negotiate contracts and renewals with favorable terms.
• Stay informed about industry trends and competitive offerings.
• Provide accurate sales forecasts and pipeline reports.
• Serve as primary contact for assigned key accounts.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related technical field

Tools

Salesforce CRM

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of industrial automation solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and client-focused Key Account Manager to manage and grow strategic accounts within the Vereeniging, Gauteng region. This role is essential for driving revenue growth by deepening relationships with major industrial clients and ensuring their success with Our client's innovative automation technologies. You will be responsible for understanding the complex needs of industrial partners, offering tailored solutions, and providing exceptional ongoing support. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical aptitude, excellent communication skills, and a proven ability to manage complex sales cycles within the industrial sector. This is a significant opportunity for a relationship-driven sales professional to make a tangible impact in a vital industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic account plans for a portfolio of key industrial clients to maximize revenue and customer satisfaction.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with decision-makers and stakeholders within key accounts.
• Identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling Our client's automation products and services.
• Understand client business objectives and challenges, and effectively position automation solutions to meet their needs.
• Conduct regular business reviews with clients to ensure value realization and identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with technical support, engineering, and service teams to ensure seamless delivery and ongoing support.
• Negotiate contracts and renewals, ensuring favorable terms for both parties.
• Stay informed about industry trends, new technologies, and competitive offerings in industrial automation.
• Provide accurate sales forecasts and reporting on account status and pipeline development.
• Act as the primary point of contact for assigned key accounts, ensuring prompt resolution of any issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in Key Account Management or a similar client-facing sales role, preferably in industrial automation, manufacturing, or related industries.
• Proven track record of managing and growing large industrial accounts.
• Strong technical understanding of automation systems, PLCs, robotics, or related industrial technologies.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate effectively and close complex deals.
• Proficiency in CRM software (e.g., Salesforce) and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Willingness to travel within the Vereeniging area and surrounding industrial zones as needed.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a client-centric approach.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary with an attractive commission and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced technical training.
• Car allowance and travel reimbursement.
• Exposure to cutting-edge automation technologies and major industrial clients.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Potential for career growth within a leading automation solutions provider.