Key Account Manager

Our client, AP&T, seeks a Key Account Manager to lead its expansion and strengthen its presence in North America. Founded in 1989, AP&T has been developing high-performing production solutions for the sheet metal forming industry for 60 years. They offer advanced production systems, stand-alone automation, servo hydraulic presses, and heat treatment equipment. Today, they are a global player focusing on sustainable solutions for customers in various industries. Their headquarters, development activities, and most production are located in Sweden, and they have sales and service representatives worldwide. For more information, visit https://www.aptgroup.com/ and check out this video.

About the Role

As a Key Account Manager, you will acquire high-profile clients and expand sales within the existing customer base. You will help drive AP&T’s growth by building strong client relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and leading strategic account initiatives. You will collaborate with industry leaders across North America and globally, leveraging AP&T’s expertise and innovative solutions. Your role will be instrumental in strengthening AP&T’s market position, enhancing organizational capabilities, and ensuring long-term customer success. This remote position reports to the President of North America. Travel up to 70% is expected, including the occasional trip to HQ in Sweden. Your responsibilities include:

• Account Management: Oversee and manage relationships with key and other accounts, ensuring their needs are met and fostering long-term business partnerships. Provide personalized solutions to clients to strengthen retention and loyalty.
• Sales Strategy Development: Create and implement regional sales strategies to achieve revenue and growth targets. Identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling within existing accounts while pursuing new business prospects.
• New Business Development: Generate new business by identifying, prospecting, and securing potential regional customers. Develop a strong pipeline of leads and opportunities to support sustainable growth.
• Market & Industry Analysis: Continuously monitor market trends, customer needs, and competitor activities to identify opportunities for market share growth. Based on regional market dynamics, provide insights and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Sales Presentations & Negotiations: Lead product presentations, demonstrations, and negotiations with potential and existing customers. Tailor solutions based on customer requirements and product capabilities.
• Sales Reporting: Using CRM systems and Salesforce, maintain accurate sales records, customer interaction logs, and forecasts. Provide regular performance updates and sales reports to management.
• Sales Agents: Maintain and foster long-term relationships with sales agents in the assigned region.
• Collaboration with Internal Teams: Work closely with product development, engineering, and service teams to understand and meet customer requirements. Translate customer needs into actionable specifications and deliverables for internal stakeholders.
• Quoting: Prepare accurate quotes and cost calculations based on customer specifications and requirements. Ensure that all pricing is competitive while maintaining profit margins.
• Industry Events Participation: Represent the company at tradeshows, conferences, and other industry events. Use these platforms to network, build and strengthen relationships, showcase products, and stay updated on market trends and innovations.
• Intercultural Competence: Understand and navigate diverse cultural perspectives, especially when working with international clients and teams. Ensure smooth communication and collaboration across regions.
• Continuous Learning: Stay informed on industry developments, product advancements, and sales techniques to maintain a competitive edge in the market

Qualifications & Skills

Your Education, Work Experience, Skills, Traits

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, business administration, or a related field is preferred, but not required
• Min. 10 years experience in sales or account management within the automotive Industry or B2B sector
• Strong understanding of industrial equipment, machinery, or related technical products
• Proven C-level sales and engagement management capabilities
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM tools such as HubSpot or Salesforce
• Demonstrates integrity, precision, and efficiency in business development efforts
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving, negotiation, and time management skills
• Innovative—open to experimenting, learning, and proactively taking initiatives

What We Offer is More than Just a Job….

This is your chance to be part of a dynamic, innovative, and fast-growing organization. You'll play a key role in driving the company’s expansion while challenging yourself to grow personally and professionally. At AP&T, you’ll thrive in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment—free from unnecessary bureaucracy—where your contributions are recognized and make a real difference.

• A team-oriented culture that values your contributions and supports your professional development.
• The opportunity to be part of a truly innovative and expanding international company.
• Global collaboration—Work alongside colleagues across North America and internationally, and interact regularly with our Swedish headquarters.
• A competitive compensation package with excellent benefits, including:
• Comprehensive health insurance for you and your dependents
• Disability & life insurance
• 401(k)