At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales growth and manage key accounts in the buying groups sector.
- Company: Join Sika, a global leader in specialty chemicals for construction and manufacturing.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, and extensive professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; we encourage applications from all backgrounds, especially women.
- Why this job: Shape strategies and make a real impact in a supportive and dynamic team.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in Key Account Management with strong communication and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Company Description
Sika is a speciality chemicals 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 industrial manufacturing. Sika has subsidiaries in 102 countries around the world and, in over 400 factories, produces innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and transportation sector towards greater environmental compatibility. With more than 34,000 employees, the company generated sales of CHF 11.76 billion in 2024.
Job Description
We’re looking for a National Key Account Manager to join our UK Distribution Buying Group team Hybrid working.
About the role
We are looking for a National Key Account Manager with a proven track record of growing both sales and margin in Buying Groups, National Accounts or a region. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and growing the major buying groups. The team currently consists of 4 regional sales managers and 16 BDMs spanning both buying group and independent customers. This role would suit an individual that is proactive, has strong analytical and communication skills, a proven track record for building strong relationships and who is enthusiastic with a drive to succeed.
Purpose of the Role
To maximise profitable growth through strategic account management and customer relationship ownership.
What’s In it for You?
- Achieve and exceed sales and margin budgets
- Shape the long‑term strategy for key buying groups
- Grow market share across the UK buying group distribution market
- Access ongoing professional development including Sika Business School
The Rewards:
You will be rewarded with a competitive salary, and a sweep of great benefits. We pride ourselves on our total reward package:
- EV Company Car Fleet or Car Cash Allowance
- Bonus Scheme
- Holiday 25 days rising to 28 days with service, plus bank holidays
- Hybrid Working
- A company pension contribution of up to 10%
- Private healthcare for you, with option to add family
- Group life cover at 6x your annual salary
- Global Income Protection (PHI)
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
- Staff discount platform & Cycle to Work scheme
- Dedicated Service Awards for reaching key milestones
- Lunch allowance when field
- Selected discounted Sika products
The Support:
The UK Distribution team is one of trust, honesty & respect, motivation and fun, being supportive, sharing our passion and collaborating.
The Skills:
- Strong strategic and commercial acumen
- Leadership experience
- IT and CRM literacy
- Product/industry knowledge (advantageous)
- Communication and negotiation skills
- Results‑driven mindset
- Commitment to ongoing development
A significant commitment to professional and personal development from day one, including a comprehensive local, product knowledge and leadership development initiatives complimented by a global Sika Business School offering.
The Future: Potential Career Routes: National Sales Manager where possible which could include other areas of Sika’s business. The opportunity to progress within a global company across a variety of business areas.
Qualifications
What we need from you?
- Clean, current driving licence
- Minimum 2 years Key Account Management experience
- Proven track record of delivering results
- Strong IT and CRM skills
- Industry/competitor knowledge (advantageous)
Additional Information
Commitment towards Diversity
We welcome expressions of interest from all eligible applicants. The Construction Industry and the Sika salesforce remain disproportionately under-represented by women and we therefore particularly welcome applications from women interested in a sales career in the building supplies and materials industry. Accordingly, we aim to provide an enabling and inclusive working environment for all.
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.
National Account Manager – Buying Groups in Leeds employer: Sika
Sika is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of trust, collaboration, and professional growth, making it an ideal place for a National Account Manager. With a commitment to employee development through initiatives like the Sika Business School, competitive benefits including hybrid working, generous holiday allowances, and a supportive team environment, Sika empowers its employees to thrive while contributing to sustainable practices in the construction sector. Join us to be part of a global leader dedicated to innovation and environmental responsibility.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land National Account Manager – Buying Groups in Leeds
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like National Account Manager – Buying Groups at Sika, presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including Sika. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a National Account Manager – Buying Groups. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace National Account Manager – Buying Groups in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for Sika:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Sika. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sika
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show Sika that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show Sika that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with Sika’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.
