Key Account Manager

About the Role

A well-established international consumer goods company is seeking an experienced Key Account Manager -- DACH & Benelux to manage and grow strategic retail accounts across the region. This role focuses on developing long-term partnerships, driving profitable growth, and strengthening brand presence across multiple sales channels, including DIY, garden centres, distributors, and e-commerce.

The portfolio includes indoor and outdoor consumer products such as planters, lawn accessories, rugs, and mats.

Key Responsibilities

Key Account Management & Customer Relations

• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key customers
• Act as the primary point of contact for commercial and operational matters
• Conduct regular business reviews and provide tailored customer solutions
• Ensure high customer satisfaction and manage escalations proactively
• Expand and develop a sustainable customer base across the region

Sales Strategy & Business Development

• Develop and execute strategic account plans to achieve sales, margin, and inventory targets
• Identify and secure new business opportunities within existing and new accounts
• Implement product segmentation and business development strategies across multiple channels
• Execute approved sales plans and promotional activities

Commercial & Negotiation

• Prepare pricing proposals, quotations, and commercial offers
• Participate in contract negotiations, renewals, and pricing agreements
• Support the execution of sales and promotional campaigns aligned with market needs

Forecasting, Budgeting & Reporting

• Prepare and manage sales forecasts and budgets
• Deliver regular sales reports, forecasts, and market insights
• Provide actionable recommendations based on customer and market analysis

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Sales, Marketing, Forecasting, Product Development, Logistics, and Customer Support
• Share customer feedback and market insights to support product development and optimisation

Brand & Market Representation

• Represent the company at trade fairs, exhibitions, and industry events
• Monitor market trends and competitor activity to identify opportunities and risks

Requirements

Experience & Education

• Minimum 7 years' experience as a Key Account Manager
• At least 5 years' experience in the Retail / DIY sector
• Proven track record of managing key accounts and achieving revenue targets

Skills & Competencies

• Strong commercial, negotiation, and account management skills
• Strategic and analytical mindset with strong forecasting capabilities
• Excellent organisational and reporting skills
• Proficiency in CRM systems and Microsoft Office
• High level of autonomy, integrity, and accountability

Languages

• Fluent German (C1/C2) -- essential
• Fluent English -- essential

Additional information:

Hybrid role combining home office, office presence (Central Europe), and regular regional travel.

Frequent customer visits, trade fairs, and industry events.

Salary: up to €86,000 Bonus structure: 10% of salary -- 50% New Business, 50% Account Management. Car provided.

Benefits:

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