Senior Business Development/KAM - Automotive, Michigan U.S.
About this role
Drive Growth. Build Partnerships. Win New Business.
Are you an experienced automotive sales professional who knows how to turn customer relationships into long-term business opportunities?
We are looking for a Senior Business Development & Key Account Manager to lead commercial growth in the US market for an established international automotive components manufacturer.
Our client is a global manufacturing company with four production facilities in India, specializing in the development and production of a diverse range of automotive components and engineered solutions. Working with leading automotive manufacturers, the company is now looking to strengthen its presence in North America and expand its portfolio of OEM customers and programs.
This is a high-impact, independent role for a commercially driven professional who combines strong OEM relationships, technical understanding and a proven ability to win new business.
Reporting directly to the CEO, you will take ownership of customer relationships, identify new opportunities and drive profitable growth across the US automotive market.
Your Responsibilities
Develop and execute business development strategies to expand the company's presence in the US automotive market.
Build, manage and strengthen relationships with major automotive OEMs, including Ford, Stellantis and other key manufacturers.
Identify and pursue new business opportunities, customers and applications for the company's product portfolio.
Drive the entire commercial process, from initial customer engagement and RFQs through quotations, pricing negotiations, business awards and production launch.
Develop account strategies to increase revenue, expand existing programs and grow the company's share of wallet.
Lead commercial discussions, negotiate pricing and contractual terms, and ensure sustainable business profitability.
Collaborate closely with engineering, R&D, program management, quality, manufacturing and supply chain teams in India.
Act as the key commercial link between US customers and the company's international operations.
Monitor market developments, identify growth opportunities and maintain a strong sales pipeline.
Represent the company in customer meetings and industry events, with regular travel across the US and occasional trips to India.
Your Profile
10+ years of experience in the automotive industry, preferably in senior commercial, sales or business development roles.
Proven experience in automotive OEM sales, Key Account Management or Business Development within an automotive supplier (OEM/Tier 1).
Direct commercial experience managing Ford as a customer is highly preferred.
A strong track record of winning new business, securing automotive programs and growing existing customer accounts.
Experience with RFQs, cost calculations, pricing strategies, commercial negotiations and profitability management.
Technical understanding of automotive components, product development and manufacturing processes.
Ability to build and maintain relationships with senior-level stakeholders, particularly within OEM purchasing and engineering organizations.
Strong commercial mindset, negotiation skills and the ability to work independently.
Willingness to travel extensively across the United States and occasionally internationally.
Must be currently based in the United States, preferably in Michigan.
What’s on Offer?
A senior, autonomous position with direct reporting to the CEO.
The opportunity to shape and drive the company's growth in the US automotive market.
Cooperation with an established international automotive manufacturer.
Competitive base salary complemented by a performance-based commission structure.
Remote working arrangement with regular customer visits.
The opportunity to make a direct impact on business development, strategic partnerships and long-term commercial success.
Interested in taking the lead in developing new business opportunities within the US automotive market? We would be happy to hear from you.
Originally posted on Himalayas
