Area Sales Manager – Vacuum Automation Division

About the role

The Area Sales Manager’s mission is to drive profitable sales growth and market share for Piab’s Vacuum Automation products within the assigned Northern California / Pacific Northwest territory. This role is responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities, managing existing accounts, and providing technical solutions that help customers optimize their automation processes. The Area Sales Manager acts as a trusted advisor to customers and partners, supporting Piab’s vision of an automated world where no resources are wasted and safety is prioritized.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement territory business plans aligned with company goals and objectives.
• Identify, pursue, and secure new customers and business opportunities in target industries across Northern California, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Nevada.
• Manage and grow relationships with existing customers, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and retention.
• Provide technical advice and product recommendations to customers, leveraging in-depth knowledge of vacuum automation solutions.
• Conduct product presentations, demonstrations, and training sessions for customers and partners (in-person and virtual).
• Maintain accurate records of sales activities, opportunities, and forecasts using CRM tools.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and customer needs to inform sales strategies across the region.
• Collaborate with internal teams (engineering, product management, customer service) to ensure customer requirements are met.
• Prepare and deliver quotations, proposals, and tender documents in a timely and professional manner.
• Lead negotiations to close deals and secure profitable agreements.
• Provide regular sales reports, forecasts, and updates to management.
• Represent Piab at trade shows, industry events, and customer meetings throughout the assigned territory.
• Support customers post-sale to ensure successful implementation and satisfaction.
• Organize and participate in product launches and promotional activities.
• Gather and relay customer feedback to inform product development.
• Utilize Piab’s digital tools and AI assistants to streamline sales processes and enhance operational efficiency.
• Act in accordance with Piab’s Code of Conduct and core values.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong technical understanding of vacuum automation and industrial automation systems.
• Proven sales acumen with the ability to identify, qualify, and close sales opportunities.
• Excellent customer relationship management and interpersonal skills.
• Solution-oriented approach with the ability to analyze customer needs and propose tailored solutions.
• Skilled in market analysis and identifying new business opportunities.
• Strong negotiation and persuasion skills.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities.
• Effective project management and organizational skills.
• Proficient in CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with online webinar and conference tools (e.g., Teams, Zoom).
• Self-motivated, proactive, and results-driven, able to work independently.
• Effective team player, able to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Adaptable to a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel within the assigned territory as required.

Experience and Educational Background

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field or equivalent technical discipline.
• Minimum 3-5 years of technical sales experience, preferably in industrial automation or related fields.

Travel

Up to or more than 50% travel required (primarily within Northern California, Oregon, and Washington; with coverage responsibility for Idaho, Montana and Nevada).