Head of Sales - Sheet Moulding Compounds- Europe
Head of Sales - Sheet Moulding Compounds- Europe

Head of Sales - Sheet Moulding Compounds- Europe

Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Red Chilli Recruitment

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive global growth in Rail, Bus, and EV sectors with advanced composite solutions.
  • Company: Leading company in advanced composite mobility solutions.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and opportunity to lead innovative projects.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and market leadership.
  • Why this job: Make a significant impact in the future of transport and sustainability.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Business or Engineering; 10-12+ years in commercial roles.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

We are seeking a commercially driven and strategically minded Business Development Leader to drive global growth across the Rail, Bus, and Electric Vehicle (EV) sectors, with a focus on advanced SMC composite solutions. This role is responsible for identifying, developing, and securing high-value opportunities with OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, battery manufacturers, and transport authorities. The successful candidate will position the company as a preferred partner for lightweight, durable, and high-performance composite components, including next-generation EV battery enclosures and structural applications.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Strategic Business Development
  • Develop and execute a 3–5-years growth strategy across Rail, Bus, and EV segments.
  • Identify and develop new opportunities for SMC components in:
  • Rail rolling stock and infrastructure
  • Bus and coach manufacturing
  • Interior and exterior transport components
  • Electrification and lightweighting initiatives
  • Electric Vehicle battery enclosures, covers, and structural components
  • Build robust market intelligence on competitors, emerging technologies, and future mobility programs.
  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Market Development
    • Lead the development of EV business, focusing on:
    • Battery enclosures and protective covers
    • Structural and semi-structural battery components
    • Electrical insulation and thermal management solutions
  • Establish relationships with:
    • EV OEMs
    • Battery manufacturers and integrators (cell-to-pack / pack assembly)
    • Tier-1 automotive and system suppliers
  • Position SMC as a superior alternative to metals and thermoplastics based on weight reduction, fire performance, durability, and cost efficiency.
  • Sales & Market Expansion
    • Originate and convert high-value opportunities with:
    • Rail OEMs
    • Bus & coach OEMs
    • EV manufacturers and battery suppliers
    • Tier-1 system suppliers
    • Transport authorities and operators
  • Manage the full sales lifecycle from prospecting to contract closure.
  • Lead commercial negotiations and secure long-term supply agreements.
  • Build and maintain a strong, qualified global sales pipeline.
  • Technical & Cross-Functional Collaboration
    • Work closely with Engineering, Production, and R&D teams to:
    • Thermal management and insulation
    • Fire resistance and safety (including thermal runaway scenarios)
    • Structural integrity of composite components
  • Translate customer requirements into commercially viable solutions.
  • Support feasibility studies, costing, and project execution.
  • Develop EV-specific solutions addressing:
    • Support the preparation of technical proposals and commercial submissions.
  • Market Positioning & Brand Growth
    • Position SMC composites as a leading solution for:
    • Lightweighting and energy efficiency
    • Fire and smoke compliance
    • Corrosion resistance and durability
    • Sustainability and lifecycle cost reduction
    • Battery safety and performance in EV applications
  • Strengthen the brand as a global leader in advanced composite mobility solutions.
  • QUALIFICATIONS

    • Degree in Business, Engineering, or related field.

    PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

    • 10 –12+ years senior commercial experience in manufacturing, infrastructure, rail, or industrial sectors.
    • Proven success in Rail, Bus, Automotive, or Electric Vehicle sectors.
    • Strong track record in selling engineered or composite solutions.
    • Demonstrated ability to win and manage large, complex international contracts.
    • Experience operating across Europe and North America is essential.
    • Strong understanding of Sheet Moulding Components and the benefits.
    • Strategic, results-driven leader with a track record of achieving sales targets.

    Head of Sales - Sheet Moulding Compounds- Europe employer: Red Chilli Recruitment

    As a leading player in the advanced composite solutions sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. Our employees benefit from extensive growth opportunities, competitive compensation, and the chance to make a significant impact in the rapidly evolving Rail, Bus, and Electric Vehicle markets across Europe. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to sustainability and cutting-edge technology.
    Red Chilli Recruitment

    Contact Detail:

    Red Chilli Recruitment Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Head of Sales - Sheet Moulding Compounds- Europe

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals at events or online. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Showcase your expertise! Create a personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn. Share insights about the Rail, Bus, and EV sectors to position yourself as a thought leader in advanced SMC composite solutions.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and challenges. Tailor your responses to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals in lightweight, durable composite components.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.

    We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sales - Sheet Moulding Compounds- Europe

    Business Development
    Sales Strategy
    Market Intelligence
    Relationship Building
    Commercial Negotiation
    Sales Lifecycle Management
    Technical Proposal Preparation
    Cross-Functional Collaboration
    Understanding of Composite Materials
    Knowledge of Electric Vehicle Market
    Project Execution
    Feasibility Studies
    Sustainability Awareness
    Problem-Solving Skills
    Results-Driven Leadership

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Sales role. Highlight your experience in business development, especially in the Rail, Bus, and EV sectors. We want to see how your skills align with our focus on advanced SMC composite solutions.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've driven growth in similar industries and how you can position our company as a preferred partner in the market.

    Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate your success in securing high-value opportunities and managing complex contracts. We love seeing tangible results!

    Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!

    How to prepare for a job interview at Red Chilli Recruitment

    ✨Know Your Market

    Before the interview, dive deep into the Rail, Bus, and EV sectors. Understand the latest trends, key players, and emerging technologies. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can drive growth in these areas.

    ✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset

    Prepare to discuss your approach to developing a 3–5-year growth strategy. Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully identified and secured high-value opportunities. This will demonstrate your ability to think long-term and strategically.

    ✨Highlight Your Technical Collaboration Skills

    Since this role involves working closely with Engineering, Production, and R&D teams, be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated cross-functionally in the past. Share examples of how you translated customer requirements into viable solutions, showcasing your technical understanding of composite materials.

    ✨Prepare for Commercial Negotiations

    Expect questions about your experience in managing the full sales lifecycle and securing long-term supply agreements. Have specific examples ready that illustrate your negotiation skills and how you've successfully closed complex contracts in the past.

    Head of Sales - Sheet Moulding Compounds- Europe
    Red Chilli Recruitment

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