Key Account Specialist, Upper Midwest

About the role

The Key Account Specialist, Upper Midwest is responsible for full-plant level account management and execution across assigned Key Account facilities. This person serves as the primary field-based account owner for all assigned facilities, managing day-to-day relationships, technical support, service coordination, and execution of growth initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary Applied Adhesives contact for assigned Key Account facilities.
• Own day-to-day customer relationships with plant management, engineering, maintenance, and operations.
• Conduct regular onsite visits to understand applications, production needs, and operational challenges.
• Ensure consistent customer experience, responsiveness, and satisfaction at the facility level.
• Lead adhesive trials, line startups, conversions, and optimization initiatives.
• Diagnose bonding, application, or process issues and drive corrective actions.
• Optimize adhesive usage, application methods, and total cost performance.
• Capture and develop plant level opportunities for new adhesives, technologies, and process improvements.
• Partner with the Key Account Manager on pricing strategy, approvals, and expansion planning.
• Maintain strong alignment with the Key Account Manager and Director of Sales – Key Accounts.

Requirements

• A strong plant level relationship builder.
• Tech-savvy, hands-on mindset.
• Organized, execution-focused account manager.
• Commercially aware and disciplined.
• Highly responsive and customer focused.
• Comfortable operating independently with clear strategic alignment.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree required. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 3–7+ years of experience in adhesives, industrial sales, manufacturing, or application engineering.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Experience working in manufacturing or plant environments.
• Strong technical aptitude and understanding.
• Ability and willingness to travel regularly to customer facilities.
• Experience with hot melt, water based, pressure sensitive, or reactive adhesives preferred.
• Packaging, food & beverage, converting, or assembly industry experience preferred.
• Familiarity with adhesive application equipment preferred.

Benefits

Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
401k Match
Flexible and Team-Oriented work environment
Generous PTO policy
Tuition Reimbursement
Employee Assistance Program
Career and talent development opportunities as well as opportunities for personal growth

Pay

Commensurate with experience

Schedule

Remote role, but must live in Wisconsin, Illinois, or Indiana to be considered for this role. 50% - 75% travel is required.