Senior Key Accounts Manager - Automotive

G-Core Capital; Durban; On-site; ZAR 850 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive organization in Durban is seeking an experienced candidate with a strong background in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or commercial qualifications. The role encompasses leadership in strategy execution and performance, along with managing pricing and market strategies. The ideal applicant should have a minimum of 7 years in the Automotive Industry, experience with OEMs, and knowledge of IATF 16949. This position offers a unique opportunity to drive operational efficiency and maintain key customer relationships.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years experience in the Automotive Industry.
• Knowledge of IATF 16949.
• Extensive experience with automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.
• Experience in export markets and international business development.

Responsibilities

• Execute the organisations vision, values, culture, sustainability and strategy.
• Implement pricing and market strategies aligned with business goals.
• Lead RFQ submissions and ensure competitive pricing.
• Work closely with engineering, supply chain, and finance.
• Assist in managing forex risks, budgeting, and financial forecasting.
• Maintain strong relationships with OEMs and ensure satisfaction.
• Drive cross-functional project execution for process optimization.

Education

BSc or B.Eng. Mechanical/Electrical Engineering/CIMA/CA/Commercial/sales qualification

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Job description

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• BSc or B.Eng. Mechanical/Electrical Engineering/CIMA/CA/Commercial/sales qualification (Essential)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (Advantageous)
• Minimum 7 years experience in the Automotive Industry
• Knowledge of IATF 16949
• Extensive experience with automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers
• Experience in export markets and international business development

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leadership Execute the organisations vision, values, culture, sustainability and strategy. Drive performance and execution to ensure operational efficiency within the Commercial team.
• Commercial Strategy - Execute and Implement pricing and market strategies aligned with business goals. Support the Senior General Manager in translating strategic goals into actionable commercial plans.
• RFQ Management Lead RFQ submissions, coordinate with costing and engineering teams, and ensure competitive pricing.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with engineering, supply chain, and finance to align commercial activities.
• Forex & Financial Monitoring Assist in managing forex risks, budgeting, and financial forecasting.
• Customer Relationship Management Maintain strong relationships with OEMs, support audits, and ensure satisfaction.
• Drive cross-functional project execution and continuous improvement initiatives by leading, participating in, and monitoring strategic projects that optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance business sustainability and success.