Director of Sales - Automotive OES

Company Description

About Sika

With more than 100 years of experience, Sika is a worldwide innovation and sustainability leader in the development and production of systems and products for commercial and residential construction, as well as the transportation, marine, automotive, and renewable energy manufacturing industries. 

Sika is a specialty chemical company with a globally leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protection in the building sector and industry.  Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world, produces in over 400 factories, and develops innovative technologies for customers worldwide.  In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and transportation industries toward greater environmental compatibility.  Approximately 33,000 employees generated CHF11.20 billion in sales in 2025.

Roles & Opportunities

Direct the planning, coordination, and execution of sales programs for Automotive OES accounts in North America (US and Mexico).  Ensure sales activities are consistent with, and meet the Automotive Unit’s sales, growth, margin, and profit objectives.  Support regional Key Account, Technical Service, and R&D team members in pursuit of aligned objectives including coordination with EU-led global key accounts.  Lead regional process improvement initiatives related to supply chain optimization, introduction and domestication of new products, market pricing, and AR/expiring inventory management. In summary, the Director of Sales position blends technical product knowledge with strong sales and relationship-building skills, targeting both new business development and existing customer growth across assigned accounts.

Job Description

• Achieve sales goals, margin, and growth objectives on an annual basis for assigned accounts based on coordinated and targeted action plans, pricing, and product mix strategies, and effective control of sales expense budgets
• Lead development of annual and three-year strategic sales plans for Interior and Exterior adhesive customer accounts in accordance with the Automotive Unit’s sales and profit objectives; recommend and execute agreed-upon sales strategy and marketing plan/programs according to annual budget and three-year plan to meet sales, growth, margin and profit objectives.
• Manage, develop, and motivate assigned Key Account Managers in day-to-day sales activities to achieve planned growth in assigned account/technology segments and to prepare them to assume increasing levels of sales responsibilities
• Establish a robust innovation and opportunity pipeline for assigned accounts and technologies using available market intelligence, customer input, global alignment, and CRM records
• Conduct product trials, application support, and technical demonstrations to showcase and promote Sika solutions
• Lead collaborative efforts with Marketing, R&D, Technical Service, and global colleagues to develop and deliver strategic plans aligned with business unit strategy.
• Recommend, develop, and communicate sales policies and procedures to sales personnel
• Manage employee performance planning and review process for assigned sales personnel; identify and provide opportunities for personal career growth planning and development
• Participate in developing and measuring the effectiveness of marketing programs for new and existing products, as well as new and existing applications
• Ensure effective management and resolution of issues related to customer service responsibilities, including invoicing, re-bills, debits/credits, customer response effectiveness, etc.
• Perform special projects and other duties as required by the VP of Sales

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required, preferably in business or engineering field
• 7-10 years of experience (including minimum three years in managerial positions) and a deep understanding of the Automotive interior and exterior trim adhesives market including both applications and market segment trends.
• Excellent networking, relationship building, negotiating, and assessment skills with a strong ability to market new value propositions, products, and services.
• Technical understanding of adhesive technologies (Epoxy, Acrylics, Polyurethanes, Hot Melts, Silicones, Water-based, etc.). 
• Must have proven record of creativity, innovation, sales growth, and significant achievement

Additional Information

Perks & Benefits

• 401K with generous company match
• Bonuses
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
• Paid Parental Leave
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays
• Floating Holidays + Paid Volunteer Time
• Wellness/Fitness Reimbursements
• Education Assistance
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Employee Referral Program & More!

Sika fosters a culture of entrepreneurship, empowering each individual to make decisions, learn from experiences, and shape their own career path. The safety and well-being of employees are top priorities at Sika, with a strong commitment to open communication and maintaining a safe workplace. In addition, Sika actively contributes to the community and promotes sustainability by giving back, minimizing environmental impact, and embracing social responsibility.

We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role.  Compensation is determined based on skills relevant to the position, education, and or training.  We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Sika Corporation is committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals that apply. As an equal opportunity employer Sika will consider all qualified applicants without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, or other protected characteristics.

We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training.  We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.