Area Sales Manager

Task areas — Main tasks* Sales Leadership & Management ▪ Define, implement, and relentlessly pursue a high-impact sales plan for markets, products, and industries within the region. ▪ Set and achieve challenging margin and growth targets, driving commercial excellence and market penetration. ▪ Lead by example in customer acquisition, retention, and satisfaction, building robust relationships with key accounts and stakeholders. ▪ Analyze sales performance, market trends, and competitive dynamics to anticipate risks and seize opportunities. Strategy Development & Deployment ▪ Develop and execute forward-thinking tactical and strategic plans aligned with segment growth objectives. ▪ Identify and capitalize on emerging market trends, disruptive technologies, and new product opportunities. Entrepreneurial Responsibility, Finance & Controlling Take full responsibility for success of own area of responsibility, driving profitability and sustainable growth. ▪ Ensure all operations comply with relevant regulations and company standards. ▪ Proactively contribute to safeguard and enhance company investments and assets. Change Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration Champion change, innovation, and continuous improvement across the segment. ▪ Coordinate priorities and projects with central functions (Design, Marketing, SCM, R&D), ensuring business objectives are met. ▪ Foster a culture of accountability, empowerment, and high performance within the team. Quality, Compliance & Representation Uphold the highest standards of quality, technical compliance, and customer care. ▪ Represent the segment externally, strengthening relationships with customers, authorities, and industry partners. ▪ Technical, science or business studies (university / university of applied science) Minimum 5 years of senior sales management experience in a relevant industry. ▪ Demonstrated track record of exceeding ambitious sales and margin targets. ▪Expert-level sales, negotiation, and presentation skills. ▪Advanced financial acumen and business management expertise. ▪Deep market knowledge, including customer and competitor trends. ▪Proven ability to drive commercial excellence and strategic transformation. Industrial Sales in decorative surface and technical surface materials plus understanding of their technologies ▪ Leadership experience not necessary but advantage ▪ International/intercultural experience strongly preferred. Ready to drive with Continental? Take the first step and fill in the online application.