Company Overview
Our client is a globally recognized manufacturer of flexible packaging solutions, known for its advanced technology, sustainable innovations, and longstanding partnerships with leading global food producers. As part of its continued strategic focus on value-added packaging for the protein sector (meat, poultry, seafood, and plant-based alternatives), the company is seeking to appoint a Strategic Key Account Manager to oversee and develop long-term relationships with major multinational customers.
This role is a unique opportunity for a commercially driven professional to join a high-performing team within an international business offering scale, technical depth, and growth potential.
Position Summary
The Strategic Key Account Manager will be responsible for managing and expanding high-value, multi-country customer relationships within the protein segment, ensuring alignment with both commercial objectives and operational capabilities. This individual will act as the central point of contact for a select portfolio of key accounts, driving strategic collaboration, commercial growth, and long-term partnerships.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage and grow a defined portfolio of strategic key accounts, primarily in the protein/meat/poultry sector, across multiple European markets.
* Develop multi-year account plans aligned with customer roadmaps, category trends, and the company’s strategic objectives.
* Lead cross-functional coordination (Sales, R&D, Technical Support, Supply Chain, and Production) to deliver tailored solutions that meet customer specifications.
* Negotiate and manage complex commercial agreements, including pricing strategies, volume forecasts, innovation projects, and service-level expectations.
* Identify opportunities for product innovation, sustainability initiatives, and value engineering in partnership with key clients.
* Monitor account performance, ensuring profitability, operational service levels, and customer satisfaction.
* Act as a trusted advisor and internal advocate for the customer within the organization.
* Provide detailed market and customer insights to inform strategic planning and product development.
Candidate Profile (M/F/D)
* Minimum of 8–10 years of experience in key account management, commercial leadership, or technical sales, ideally within the flexible packaging or food processing industries.
* Proven success in managing complex multinational customers or accounts with high strategic value.
* Deep understanding of packaging technologies used in protein/meat/poultry applications (e.g., MAP, vacuum, thermoforming, barrier films).
* Strong business acumen with a consultative and structured sales approach.
* Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
* Fluent in English; additional European languages (e.g., German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch) are highly desirable.
* Willingness to travel regularly across Europe (approximately 30–40%).
What the Company Offers
* A strategic position within a global market leader committed to innovation and customer excellence.
* The opportunity to shape long-term partnerships with major international food companies.
* A high level of autonomy, visibility, and influence in commercial and strategic decision-making.
* Competitive compensation package including base salary, performance-related bonus, car allowance, and comprehensive benefits.
* A collaborative and professional international environment with long-term career potential.