Business Development Manager

Global Metalworking Fluids & Industrial Chemistry

Position 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.

• 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

• 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

• Familiarity with fluid maintenance systems and in-plant chemical management

• 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