Technical Sales Manager (UV-Curing)

Salary: £50-70k+ (base, depending on experience), plus performance & commission-based bonuses

Location: London or Leeds (Hybrid, min 2/3 days in office), Travel across UK & EU required

About Anstar:

Founded in 2018, Anstar is a dynamic, rapidly growing startup speciality chemicals distributor headquartered in Leeds, UK. With deep cultural and commercial expertise, we serve as a trusted bridge between Eastern manufacturers and global markets. We have quickly established ourselves as leaders in the UV-curing sector, achieving significant market share in Photoinitiators. Our agile, lean structure prioritises transparency, openness, and a customer-first approach, driven by ambitious, high-potential individuals.

Backed by a robust global supply chain, European warehousing, and local support, Anstar provides high-quality chemical products with unmatched efficiency. We continually build on our core strengths and explore new market opportunities aligned with our expertise.

Highlights:

• We are committed to sustainable business practices, including the supply of bio-sourced raw materials, aiming for long-term success while minimising environmental impact.
• Technical excellence is a priority; all our sales personnel possess a strong technical (Chemistry) background, enabling us to offer full-breadth service.
• We embrace a 'Technology First' approach, utilising cutting-edge software and automation to drive efficiency and scalable growth.

The Opportunity:

We are seeking an ambitious individual with a strong chemistry background, sharp commercial acumen and adept critical thinking abilities to strengthen our UV-Curing business across Europe. This role will offer an invigorating blend of challenges, a dynamic work environment and the opportunity to foster an entrepreneurial spirit. You will play a pivotal role in nurturing existing customer relationships while spearheading the growth of new business ventures.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Support the company in its strategy to develop within the European market.
• Maintain strong relationships with key customers, understanding their needs, addressing inquiries, and providing exceptional customer service.
• Pro-actively search for new customers in the European market.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, market dynamics, and competitor activities. Conduct market research and analysis to identify potential growth areas, customer demands, and emerging opportunities.
• Assist with tracking sales performance, analysing key metrics, and preparing regular reports on sales activities and revenue forecasts.
• Produce company presentations and assist in presenting to potential and current customers.
• Assist with the production of technical presentations with the support of formulation and research teams.
• Act as a brand ambassador at industry events, trade shows, and conferences, representing the company professionally, networking with key stakeholders, and promoting the company's products and services.
• Continuously evaluate and improve sales processes, tools, and methodologies to enhance efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction.
• Visit customers, distributors and suppliers as required.

Essential requirements for the role:

• Proven experience (3-5+ years suggested) in B2B technical sales, ideally within raw materials, chemicals, or related industries.
• You have an understanding of UV-Curable technology, raw materials (e.g., Photoinitiators, Monomers, Oligomers) and downstream industries (coatings, inks, paints, adhesives etc.).
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
• A strong background in Chemistry (e.g., BSc/MSc degree, 1st or 2:1 equivalent from a reputable university) with technical proficiency.
• Ability to conduct market analysis and contribute to sales planning.
• Proficient in creating and delivering client-ready presentations.
• You are highly proficient in English, and are comfortable with technical terminology and documentation.
• Highly proficient with standard business technology (laptops, phones) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Teams).
• Experience using CRM and ERP software.
• Full driving licence and willingness to travel across UK and Europe when required.
• You are willing to travel to our Leeds head office on an infrequent basis.

Advantageous/desirable section:

• Direct experience in UV-curing market or have a background in coatings/inks/paints.
• Masters/ PhD in Chemistry.

The interview process will consist of an initial phone call, followed by 3 interview rounds.

Equal Opportunity: Anstar is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Website: www.anstar.com

HQ: Airedale House, 423 Kirkstall Rd, Leeds, LS4 2EW, UK

Founder & Managing Director: Dr Liangyu Hawkes

We look forward to welcoming talented individuals into our dynamic team.