Our client Proterial America, Ltd. is looking for an Account Executive with a strong track record in technical sales to join their dynamic team in Detroit. The ideal candidate has strong industry knowledge, a consultative sales approach, and the ability to manage complex customer relationships in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.
This role will support and grow their Magnetic Materials Division (MM) in the Detroit, MI region. This role is designed for a
seasoned technical salesperson with knowledge of electric motors, their applications, and magnetic materials. It
will have a strong presence within the automotive, electrification, and industrial manufacturing sectors and focus
on new business development.
Job Functions:
Own and grow strategic accounts within the automotive, EV, and industrial sectors, with a focus on long-term revenue
expansion and market penetration
Develop and execute multi-year account strategies, including business planning, forecasting, and portfolio growth
Serve as a trusted technical advisor to customers, translating complex magnetic material capabilities into practical
application solutions
Lead high-level customer engagements, including executive meetings, contract negotiations, and technical
discussions
Identify and drive new business opportunities in permanent magnet electric motors and their applications
Partner with engineering and R&D teams to align product development with customer needs and emerging market
trends
Coordinate closely with global teams (including Japan and other subsidiaries) to ensure alignment on product
strategy, pricing, and delivery
Analyze market dynamics, including competitors, technology shifts, and customer roadmaps, to inform business
decisions
Oversee forecasting accuracy, pipeline development, and CRM management (HubSpot preferred)
Support resolution of complex customer issues related to quality, performance, and delivery, acting as an escalation
point when needed
Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and customer sites
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Technical understanding of magnetic materials (e.g. neodymium, ferrite) and their applications
Knowledge of automotive electrification, EV systems, robotics, and motor design principles
Ability to engage in high-level technical discussions with engineers and procurement teams
Demonstrated success in managing large, complex, multi-million-dollar accounts
Strong business acumen, including ROI analysis, forecasting, and product lifecycle management
Exceptional communication, negotiation, and influencing skills, including executive-level presence
Ability to lead cross-functional teams and operate effectively in a global, matrixed organization
Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive, strategic mindset
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Materials Science, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred)
10+ years of experience in technical sales, account management, or business development
Proven experience within magnetic materials, advanced materials, or related industrial sectors
Strong background supporting automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, or industrial manufacturing customers
Demonstrated ability to close complex, high-value deals and drive long-term partnerships
Experience working in a cross-cultural/global environment