Global Sales Director

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Global Sales Director to lead the commercial development of our client's OEM Business Unit across international markets. This strategic leadership role offers the chance to drive growth, manage key global accounts, and lead a distributed team of regional sales professionals across Europe, North America, and Asia.Our client is a well‑established multinational organisation specialising in hydraulic systems and components for OEM customers across automotive, industrial, and off‑road sectors. With operations spanning six continents and 11 assembly facilities, this role provides exceptional scope for a commercial leader to make a significant impact on global growth strategy.Key ResponsibilitiesDefine and execute global sales strategy aligned with business unit objectives and market trendsIdentify and pursue new OEM customers and market opportunities across international regionsLead strategic account management for major global customers, ensuring long‑term partnerships and commercial continuityDevelop and optimise pricing strategies and commercial frameworks to maximise profitabilityTeam Leadership & Performance ManagementLead and develop a high‑performing team of regional sales managers across multiple territoriesCollaborate with local general managers to establish optimal organisational structuresDrive accountability, provide coaching, and foster a culture of collaboration and results orientationImplement standardised sales processes, tools, and KPIs across all regionsCommercial Operations & PlanningPrepare and manage annual sales budgets and rolling forecasts in partnership with regional teamsMonitor performance against targets and implement corrective actions where requiredCoordinate cross‑functional collaboration with Supply Chain, Engineering, Operations, and Finance teamsEnsure consistent global pricing and commercial terms across all regions to maintain competitive positioningMarket Intelligence & GrowthMonitor market trends, customer needs, and competitive landscape to inform strategic decisionsSupport complex RFQs and lead negotiations for major project acquisitionsProvide market insights to support product development and positioning strategiesDrive sustainable, profitable growth aligned with operational capabilitiesRequirementsExperience & BackgroundMinimum 10 years of proven experience in international OEM sales, preferably within automotive, hydraulic, off‑road, or industrial sectorsDemonstrated track record of managing global customers and multi‑region commercial teamsExperience working with technical products (hydraulic assemblies, components, systems) and value‑added servicesPrevious experience in a global commercial leadership role with P&L responsibilityCore CompetenciesStrategic thinking with ability to define long‑term commercial strategiesStrong customer focus with proven ability to build trusted relationships with OEM customersExcellent leadership and team management capabilities across multicultural, remote teamsAdvanced negotiation and influencing skills for complex commercial arrangementsResults‑oriented mindset with strong drive for revenue growth and profitabilityData‑driven approach with experience using KPIs and commercial analyticsEssential RequirementsFluent English (written and verbal) – additional European languages advantageousWillingness to travel internationally up to 30%Strong technical aptitude with ability to understand engineering drawings, tolerances, and technical specificationsEU work authorisation or eligibility to obtain work permits in target countriesPreferred QualificationsAdditional ExperiencePrevious experience with hydraulic systems, industrial automation, or precision engineeringBackground working with Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive suppliersExperience managing sales teams across Asia‑Pacific markets (China, India, Korea)Familiarity with global procurement processes and OEM customer requirementsPersonal QualitiesProactive, hands‑on approach with willingness to be operationally involved when requiredStrong communication and listening skills with empathetic approach to stakeholder managementTeam‑focused mindset with commitment to collective success over individual performanceHigh levels of integrity and transparency in all professional dealingsCollaborative working style with ability to work effectively across different time zones and culturesBenefitsCompensationBase Salary: €100,000 per annumPerformance Bonus: Up to 20% of base salaryTotal Target Compensation: €120,000 per annumBenefits & Working ArrangementsFlexible remote/hybrid working arrangements (location negotiable based on candidate)Competitive annual leave entitlement aligned with local market standardsInternational travel opportunities as part of role requirementsProfessional development and training opportunitiesComprehensive benefits package aligned with employment locationEqual Employment Opportunity StatementBoth Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under EU law and the laws of the respective EU member states.#J-18808-Ljbffr