Distribution Manager

About the role

Manage and grow sales at key, regional, and distributor accounts for LANXESS Lubricant Additives Business (LAB) with account and budget responsibility. Develop and maintain key account plans while keeping CRM current. Identify customer and product combinations, niche value propositions in, but not exclusively, the Metal Working Fluids (MWF) — Lubricant Additives market with a focus on Additin products.

Proactively engage and contribute to ongoing supply and operational planning through IBP monthly meetings. Ability to take ownership with a proactive approach to cost management, forecasting, overdues, incoterm alignment, etc. Lead by example and guide and coach more junior sales managers as appropriate. Learn the LANXESS culture, people, LAB product line, markets, and customers while developing a positive reputation within the business unit.

Participate in trade shows such as AFPM, ILMA, STLE, and NLGI as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow sales at key, regional, and distributor accounts with full budget responsibility.
• Develop and maintain key account plans and ensure CRM data is current.
• Identify customer and product combinations, focusing on niche value propositions in the Metal Working Fluids (MWF) — Lubricant Additives market, particularly Additin products.
• Proactively contribute to supply and operational planning through IBP monthly meetings.
• Take ownership of cost management, forecasting, overdues, and incoterm alignment.
• Lead by example and mentor junior sales managers.
• Participate in assigned trade shows (e.g., AFPM, ILMA, STLE, NLGI).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree; MBA or Advanced Technical Degree preferred.
• 5-10 years of relevant sales experience.
• Ability to sell and drive results while being business-savvy with a customer focus.
• Excellent people management, influencing, relationship-building, and conflict management skills.
• Creative and strategic thinking abilities.
• Ability to manage complexity and achieve favorable outcomes.
• Ideal candidate resides in the Midwest (e.g., Chicago, Ohio).
• Must be able to travel up to 50 percent of the time.

About LANXESS

LANXESS is a leading specialty chemicals company with about 12,000 employees in 32 countries. The core business includes the development, manufacturing, and marketing of chemical intermediates, additives, and consumer protection products. LANXESS has achieved leading positions in sustainability indices such as the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Index and MSCI ESG ratings.

Benefits

• Compensation: Competitive packages inclusive of a global bonus program, varying by geographic location, work experience, education, and skill level.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Retirement plans, health programs, life insurance, and medical care.
• Work-Life & Flexibility: Support for work-life balance through the global “Xwork” program, offering flexible working arrangements.
• Training & Development: Commitment to professional and personal growth through formal and informal learning opportunities.
• Diversity: Equal Opportunity Employer encouraging diverse backgrounds and experiences.