Business Development Manager
Witan SearchPosition Summary
Our client is a respected European manufacturer of metalworking fluids, coolants, industrial part cleaners, and rust preventative chemicals. They are seeking an experienced and self-motivated Business Development Manager to drive growth across their portfolio within the Precision Engineering space. This is a customer-facing, technical sales role focused on identifying customer needs, delivering tailored chemical solutions, and building long-term relationships within the industrial manufacturing and metalworking sectors. Based in the North UK region, this role offers the opportunity to lead sales expansion in a strategically important territory.
The ideal candidate will combine strong technical knowledge with proven sales ability, capable of working independently while collaborating closely with technical service and product management teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement sales strategies to expand market share for metalworking fluids, industrial part cleaners, and corrosion inhibitors/rust preventatives
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities while managing and growing existing accounts
- Conduct on-site customer visits to assess applications, troubleshoot issues, and recommend optimal solutions
- Collaborate with customers on fluid trials, process evaluations, and system conversions
- Negotiate pricing, contracts, and supply terms to close deals and maintain profitability
- Monitor fluid maintenance programs, usage trends, and plant performance to ensure product effectiveness
- Coordinate with internal technical and service teams to deliver high-quality customer support
- Represent the company at trade shows, technical symposiums, and industry events
- Stay informed on market trends, competitor products, and regulatory updates
Must-Haves
- Minimum 3 years' experience in industrial chemical sales, ideally with metalworking fluids, industrial cleaners, or rust preventative products
- CNC machining coolants and chemistry knowledge
- Strong understanding of machining, metal forming, and surface treatment processes
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a consultative sales approach
- Technically credible and comfortable engaging with engineers, plant managers, and purchasing personnel
- Self-starter with excellent organisational and time management abilities
- Able to work independently and travel regularly within assigned territory
- Professional demeanour with a commitment to delivering customer satisfaction
Nice-to-Haves
- Familiarity with fluid maintenance systems and in-plant chemical management
What's in it for you?
- Join a globally active manufacturer with a reputation for reliability and quality
- Be part of a medium-sized business where your work truly matters and your voice is heard
- Experience a people-first culture built on trust, respect, and long-term commitment
- Enjoy direct access to leadership and short decision paths
- Grow with us through continuous learning and technical training
- Work with a diverse portfolio of high-performance chemical solutions
- Benefit from competitive compensation and performance-driven incentives
About Witan Search
Witan Search is a specialist executive search and recruitment firm focused on the chemicals, manufacturing, and personal care sectors. It provides recruitment, headhunting, and retained executive search services, supporting both technical and commercial hiring, with a stated focus on the UK and EMEA.
Interested in this role?
Apply now to join Witan Search.