Lubricants Sales Director

Sales Director - Lubricants EMEA

About the Company

The company is a global manufacturer of high-performance lubricants, metalworking fluids, greases, and specialty lubrication solutions serving a diverse range of industrial and automotive markets. Through advanced formulation expertise, strong technical support capabilities, and a customer-focused approach, the business partners with OEMs, distributors, and industrial manufacturers to improve equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute the commercial strategy for the lubricants business across the EMEA region, driving profitable growth and market expansion.
• Manage the sales of industrial lubricants, metalworking fluids, greases, process oils, and specialty lubrication solutions across key sectors including automotive, manufacturing, metals, energy, chemicals, and heavy industry.
• Develop and implement strategic business plans to achieve revenue, margin, and market share objectives.
• Identify, acquire, and develop new customers while strengthening relationships with existing key accounts and distribution partners.
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing sales team, providing coaching, support, and performance management.
• Act as the primary commercial contact for major OEMs, distributors, and strategic industrial customers.
• Collaborate closely with technical service, R&D, operations, and supply chain teams to deliver tailored customer solutions and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Lead contract negotiations, pricing discussions, and commercial agreements with key stakeholders.
• Conduct market, competitor, and industry trend analyses to identify new growth opportunities and mitigate commercial risks.
• Plan and execute marketing initiatives, including participation in industry conferences, trade fairs, and customer events.
• Drive a strong business development culture with a proactive hunter mentality and clear focus on winning new business.

Your Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Business, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 8 years of experience within the lubricants industry, with a strong track record in technical B2B sales and business development.
• Proven success selling industrial lubricants, metalworking fluids, greases, specialty oils, or related performance chemical products.
• Previous leadership experience managing regional sales teams and key account structures.
• Strong understanding of lubrication technologies, tribology, industrial maintenance, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience working with distributors, OEMs, and direct industrial customers across Europe.
• Demonstrated success developing and implementing commercial growth strategies.
• Fluent German and English are required. Additional European languages are considered an advantage.
• Willingness to travel up to 40% across EMEA.
• Entrepreneurial and results-driven mindset with strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Independent working style combined with a high level of customer focus and team orientation.
• Proficient in CRM platforms, ERP systems, Microsoft Office, and digital sales tools.

What the Company Offers

• Competitive base salary with an attractive performance-based bonus structure.
• Company car or car allowance.
• Private healthcare and comprehensive benefits package.
• Enhanced company pension scheme.
• International working environment with significant exposure to senior stakeholders.
• Short decision-making processes and a high degree of autonomy.
• Clear opportunities for career progression within a growing global organisation.
• The chance to make a significant commercial impact within a market-leading lubricants business.