Lubricants Sales Director


Cologne
Permanent
Negotiable
Commercial
PR/595876_1783081864
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.

FAQs

Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.

Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.

We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business. 

That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created. 

Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.

Handpicked roles for you