Sales Account Manager in Oldham

At SKF Pilgrim, we are committed to helping our customers eliminate uncertainty through reliable, high-integrity fastening and positioning solutions. Backed by decades of industry experience and a portfolio of trusted brands, we support critical applications across a wide range of industries worldwide. With sales, engineering, and project management based in Oldham, UK, and manufacturing operations in Hofors, Sweden, Pilgrim designs and delivers specialised hydraulically installed bolting solutions for high-torque applications, and bolt tensioning equipment for demanding industrial environments.

The purpose of the role is to drive profitable growth across Pilgrim International's global markets by developing strategic customer relationships, growing key accounts, expanding distributor networks and securing new business opportunities within industrial, power generation, marine, infrastructure and defence sectors.

The position holder will be responsible for delivering sales targets and managing opportunities from initial enquiry through to contract award. We are seeking a commercially minded technical sales professional with a well-developed account management background and the ability to identify growth opportunities and deliver profitable business across international markets. Experience in regulated industries, export markets or the defence sector would be beneficial, but we also welcome candidates from other backgrounds.

Key Responsibilities:

• Account Management & Business Development
• Develop and execute growth plans for strategic accounts and market sectors.
• Manage relationships with end users, engineering organisations, distributors, contractors, and strategic partners and conduct regular customer visits.
• Identify opportunities across the full Pilgrim product and service portfolio.
• Build relationships with engineering, procurement, operations, and senior management stakeholders.
• Prepare quotations, negotiate commercial agreements, contracts, and long-term supply arrangements.
• Support marketing campaigns, exhibitions and industry events.
• Territory & Network Development
• Develop new business opportunities within assigned international territories and establish strategic partnerships.
• Identify, recruit, and manage distributor and agent networks.
• Work closely with engineering, operations, quality, and logistics teams to ensure customer satisfaction and on-time project execution.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity and emerging opportunities.

Requirements:

• HNC/HND, Degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in technical B2B sales, account management, or business development.
• Experience within power generation, marine, industrial equipment, infrastructure or defense sectors.
• Understanding of export control regulations, compliance requirements, and secure supply chains and familiarity with security clearance processes and defense-related customer requirements will be a plus.
• Ability to expand sales, support customer retention, and develop long-term strategic relationships.
• Experience working with distributors or partner networks.
• Proficiency in English both written and spoken, other languages like French, Mandarin or German are a plus.
• Well-developed communication and contract negotiation skills.
• Customer-focused with an initiative-driven approach.
• Demonstrates ownership and a positive can-do attitude.

This position will be based in the UK, preferably in Greater Manchester Area on a local contract basis. We offer the flexibility of working from home approximately 2 days a week.

The position holder reports to General Manager Couplings, who is based in Oldham, UK. For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Simona Collino based in Italy - Talent Acquisition E&A, on Teams/mail/phone. Please note that we can't accept applications sent via email due to GDPR.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the recruiter. At SKF, we are committed to promoting fairness and inclusivity throughout our recruitment process. To achieve this, we may include assessments and verify the information in your application in compliance with country-specific laws and regulations.

If the answer is yes, submit your application in English no later than September-16-2026. We will screen candidates continuously throughout the application period, so make sure to submit your application as soon as possible.