Business Manager

• Gather customer needs and requirements in cooperation with Regional and Global organization to help build the customer strategy plans.
• Use reporting tools as CRM, up-dates the key customers databases with valid, accurate and complete information (visits reports, action reports, cases, regulatory requests )
• Deliver periodical progress reports, proactively submit information regarding trends within the market and provide recommendations regarding the improvements in the approach to the market.
• Promote the positive company reputation and develops long-term relations with customers. Hold and defend the values of the company.
• Get familiar with all the applicable corporate as well as site policies/procedures with regard to personal behavior / HSE standards and acts in compliance with all their regulations.
• Support SAP MDG & Production environment at Toller and AkzoNobel to manufacture and supply new and existing paints.
• Support roll-out and technology transfer of Customer specific Regional and Global Technology to Toller as required.
• Embed & maintain Quality Systems at Toller Partner in accordance with Customer and Internal requirements. Regular audits of Toller Partner to ensure compliance.
• Act as the primary point of contact for the key customer.
• Build and maintain a strategic partnership, understanding the customer s business needs, production schedules, and expectations.
• Address all commercial, technical, and operational queries promptly.
• Achieve revenue, margin, and volume targets for the assigned customer.
• Track sales performance, provide forecasts, and plan for demand fluctuations.
• Negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, and commercial terms within approved guidelines.
• Manage the toll manufacturing partner(s) to ensure timely production and supply of coatings.
• Monitor quality, production schedules, and adherence to agreed specifications.
• Coordinate with technical and quality teams to resolve production or quality issues.
• Collaborate with technical service teams for trials, line troubleshooting, and process optimization at the customer and toller site.
• Ensure smooth transfer of technical knowledge and compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Work closely with supply chain teams to ensure on-time delivery.
• Plan production with toller based on customer forecasts and inventory levels.
• Maintain accurate sales, production, and dispatch records.
• Track customer market trends, competitor activity, and upcoming product requirements.
• Provide regular reports on performance, key issues, and risk mitigation to management.
• Regional & Global Sales and Marketing Teams
• Regional R&D Local & Regional Technical Service Functional Support Workstreams (e.g. Supply Chain, IT, Finance, HR)
• Direct customers / future prospects Regional and Global

Knowledge & Skills:

• Bachelor s degree in science or equivalent
• 15-20 years in B2B industrial sales, key account management, or operations management, preferably in coatings, paints, or chemicals.
• Experience managing large accounts or toll manufacturing operations is highly desirable.
• Exposure to technical service support and customer operations management is a plus.
• Strong account management, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Understanding of coating systems, toll manufacturing, and operational workflows.
• Analytical, planning, and forecasting skills.
• Effective communication and coordination skills.