Strategic Account Manager

Strategic Account Manager – Account Growth & New Business Development At KI Industries, Inc., an employee-owned (ESOP) manufacturer of decorative plastic injection-molded and die-cast components, we believe culture and performance go hand in hand. Our workplace is built on ownership, trust, respect and accountability—where employees are empowered to do meaningful work and win together. Being named Plastics News Best Places to Work nine years in a row isn’t luck—it’s the result of how we show up for our people and our customers. The Opportunity The Strategic Account Manager is responsible for managing and growing a portfolio of strategic customer accounts while actively identifying and developing new business opportunities. This role combines strong relationship management (“farmer”) with proactive prospecting and market expansion (“hunter”). The ideal candidate will drive revenue growth, protect existing business, and build a robust pipeline aligned with company growth targets. What You’ll Do Account Management & Growth Own and manage a portfolio of key strategic accounts, acting as the primary commercial contactDevelop account plans to grow revenue, margin, and long-term partnershipsIdentify upselling and cross-selling opportunities within existing customersLead pricing, commercial negotiations, and contract discussionsCoordinate internally with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Finance to ensure customer satisfaction and successful program launchesMonitor customer performance, forecast demand, and manage risks related to retention and profitability New Business Development Proactively identify, qualify, and pursue new business opportunities in target markets and customer segmentsBuild and maintain a strong sales pipeline aligned with annual and long-term growth targetsLead RFQ/RFP processes, including commercial strategy, pricing, and proposal developmentDevelop market intelligence on competitors, industry trends, and customer needsRepresent the company at customer meetings, trade shows, and industry events Strategic & Commercial Leadership Support annual budgeting, sales forecasting, and strategic planning processesDrive execution of business development strategy in alignment with company goalsTrack KPIs related to revenue growth, pipeline health, win rate, and customer satisfaction Location: When not traveling, this position follows a hybrid schedule: four days per week at our Berkeley Illinois home office and one day working remotely. What We’re Looking For Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, engineering, or related field or equivalent experience5+ years of experience in B2B sales, account management, or business developmentExperience in manufacturing, automotive, appliance, plastics, or other engineered products sales strongly preferredProven track record of growing existing accounts, winning new business, prospecting and establishing new accountsStrong negotiation, presentation, and commercial acumen. Excellent communication skills; Spanish bi-lingual a plus20-30% travel required What We Offer Generous base salary plus uncapped commission and significant total earning potentialA high-impact position with meaningful influence on company growthThe autonomy and resources to build and grow your own book of businessEmployee ownership through our ESOP—your contributions help build long-term valueComprehensive health, retirement, and paid-time-off benefitsA people-first culture where employee engagement is more than a buzzwordCompany-sponsored wellness, recognition, and culture-building activities Equal Opportunity & Accommodations KI Industries, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact humanresources@kiindustries.com. Powered by JazzHR JBjGxNt91M