At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead international sales, develop strategies, and build high-performing teams.
- Company: Join a respected UK engineering firm with 70 years of pump innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, company car, and global travel opportunities.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of global expansion and make a significant impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in international sales leadership and technical B2B environments required.
- Other info: This is a permanent role based in Hampshire with global travel.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Hampshire Base with a Global Focus We’re partnering with a well-respected UK Engineering & Manufacturing business that is scaling its commercial pump operations globally. With over 70 years of excellence in pump innovation and production, they are now poised for further international expansion—and we’re looking to appoint a Head of International Sales to lead the charge. This senior role will drive commercial strategy, oversee international sales performance, and build scalable, high-performing teams across both direct and channel sales operations. Working closely with the executive team, the Head of International Sales Operations will shape go-to-market strategies, align cross-border initiatives, and identify new global opportunities for sustainable growth. Key Duties & Responsibilities: * Lead and develop the international commercial sales function across targeted territories * Work closely with the wider Group Commercial Development team to deliver sales growth strategies * Align sales efforts with the international expansion plan via B2B, channel partners, and other strategic routes * Own annual sales targets and territory objectives, delivering forecasts and action plans * Identify new markets, product opportunities, and commercial partnerships aligned to business goals * Support international M&A activity as part of long-term growth planning * Recruit, coach, and manage sales teams—ensuring performance, morale, and capability meet global standards * Champion international customer relationships and ensure consistency in quality, service, and solution delivery * Regularly report on international pipeline, risks, resource needs, and commercial performance Skills & Experience Required: * Significant commercial sales leadership experience at international level * Strong background in engineering, manufacturing, or technical B2B environments * Proven track record of building and scaling international sales teams and partner networks * Comfortable navigating high-pressure, multi-stream projects across different time zones * Commercially astute with experience in contract negotiation, pricing, and profitability * Clear communicator with a people-first leadership style and strong cross-cultural awareness * Experienced in data-led reporting, forecasting, and CRM-based performance management * Willing to travel globally as required – full UK driving licence essential Desirable: * Background in industrial pumps, water/environmental engineering, or technical manufacturing * Exposure to international acquisition or joint venture development * Awareness of export compliance, international logistics, and sales operations infrastructure Summary: Position: Head of International Sales Operations Location: Based in Hampshire, with global travel Duration: Permanent Salary: £80,000 + Bonus + Company Car + Benefits Start: Notice Dependant Apply: Now open If you’re a commercial leader ready to scale a UK manufacturing brand into global markets—this role puts you at the helm of that journey. Apply now or contact the Kiota team to discuss further
Head Of International Sales employer: Kiota Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Kiota Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of International Sales
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the engineering and manufacturing sectors, especially those with experience in international sales. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in global markets.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the company’s current international operations and identify key markets they are targeting for expansion. This knowledge will help you tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your understanding of their strategic goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous successes in building and scaling sales teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve driven growth in international markets, as this will showcase your capability to lead the commercial strategy effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in B2B sales and international logistics, particularly in the engineering sector. Being knowledgeable about these areas will position you as a strong candidate who can navigate the complexities of global sales operations.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Of International Sales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your significant commercial sales leadership experience, especially in international settings. Emphasise your background in engineering or manufacturing, and showcase any relevant achievements in building and scaling sales teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your skills align with the key duties and responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly your experience in driving commercial strategy and managing international sales performance.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your skills that match the job requirements, such as contract negotiation, data-led reporting, and cross-cultural communication. Use specific examples to demonstrate your capabilities in these areas.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: Since the role requires a people-first leadership style, include examples of how you've successfully recruited, coached, and managed sales teams. Highlight your approach to maintaining team morale and performance across different cultures.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kiota Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Head of International Sales, it's crucial to highlight your significant commercial sales leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully built and scaled international sales teams, and be ready to discuss the strategies you employed to achieve growth in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Cultural Awareness
Given the global focus of this role, showcasing your cross-cultural awareness is essential. Be prepared to discuss your experiences working with diverse teams and clients across different time zones, and how you adapted your communication style to foster strong relationships.
✨Prepare for Data-Driven Discussions
The role requires a strong understanding of data-led reporting and performance management. Familiarise yourself with key metrics relevant to international sales and be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform decision-making and drive sales performance in the past.
✨Align with Company Goals
Research the company's current international expansion plans and align your responses to demonstrate how your vision for the sales function can support their goals. Discuss potential new markets or product opportunities that could contribute to sustainable growth, showing that you're proactive and forward-thinking.