Smile Materials was built to inspire progress. Guided by joyous, purposeful principles, we transform discarded materials into beautiful, functional architectural panels and surface products. From our factory on the southwest coast of Wales, our work reaches architects, designers and luxury brands around the world. Our distinctive, circular materials are specified for everything from retail displays and counters to furniture, signage and shower panels. Whether a bespoke order or a large-scale production run, we deliver with creativity, precision and care. Together with our network of like-minded manufacturing partners, we’re expanding the reach of circular design globally, turning would-be waste into design with impact.
To support with our extensive growth plans, we have a very exciting opportunity for a multi- talented team member to join our customer facing team.
The Key Account Manager role will drive the growth and expansion of the business by identifying strategic opportunities within our Key Accounts and inbound enquiries, whilst seizing the opportunity to identify, build and maintain new customer relationships. This position plays a critical role in shaping the Company’s future by promoting business relationships, exploring new markets and contributing to revenue generation.
You will have a major impact on our revenue and therefore, we are looking for someone with strong sales/business generation experience within a relevant industry. You’ll have Sales success within architecture, design, manufacturing or similar and a real passion for what we do and our products. This is essential as you’ll need an appreciation of our market and the right ability and attitude to pick up multiple responsibilities within these areas.
What you will be doing
* First and foremost be an ambassador for excellent customer experience, delivering above and beyond for our most crucial clients. Be their dedicated point of contact developing and building relationships of integrity aligned to our brand mission and TOV.
* Proactively manage allocated Key Accounts by constantly seeking to grow sales with our existing accounts by developing new business through identification of new opportunities, cross-selling and upselling.
* Assist in identifying thriving market sectors, undiscovered/underperforming opportunities and areas for sales growth/improvement within Smile Plastics structures.
* Proactively visit customers as required.
* Develop, create and close lucrative sales opportunities with new and existing customer sectors.
* Negotiate repeat sales contracts to deliver excellent sales performance in order to exceed sales targets.
* Manage the customer journey through our CRM, order book and accounting systems. Compiling quotations, advise on technical details and work with the Technical team in the creation of CNC cutting files in Rhino (CAD), order confirmations, invoices and activity statements as required.
* Utilise data and systems to provide monthly and annual sales forecasts of Key Account growth and new Key Account opportunities.
* Support in compiling strategic proposals and business case studies for new market sectors that present undeniable relevance to Smile Materials and will result in revenue growth.
* Work with the Head of Sales, production teams and clients to ensure capacity for large contracts are optimised and customer requirements are fulfilled.
* Collaborate with clients to understand their long term goals and objectives.
* Stock Management: liaise with the production team to ensure stock is available for sales fulfilment from the order book and sales forecasts.
Who are we looking for
* Educated to Bachelors Degree level or equivalent in Business, Marketing or related field
* You’ll have a number of years experience in Key Account Management / Business Development within a relevant industry, architecture, interior design, design, plastics manufacturing etc, and a clear interest in our products and materials. Any knowledge or interest in sustainability is also highly desirable.
* Previous experience of working in a Sales role centred around new business growth within the specification and fit-out sales sector.
* Great interpersonal abilities supported by professional oral and written communication skills.
* Confidence in building customer relationships face to face, over the phone, email and social media – maintaining a positive, patient & friendly rapport in line with our TOV.
* The ability to communicate technical detail in a confident and straightforward manner.
* Attention to detail and accuracy in all work is important – we make exceptional products, and we like to provide our customers with the best we can.
* You must love problem-solving and be proactive – taking the initiative to find solutions.
* Ability to work to tight timescales and deadlines. We work fast around here!
* Ideally, we’d love you to have other languages spoken and written.
* You must be flexible and adaptable, willing to perform other duties as and when required – we’re small and not defined by our job titles.
Computer literacy:
* Excellent MS 365 (Word, Excel and Outlook)
* Excellent CRM experience
* Desirable: Adobe Creative Suite, experience in CAD (Rhino), working with technical drawings or other technical design software, Online Customer Relationship Management software, Online accounting packages for raising invoices
At Smile Materials, you’ll be part of a passionate team that’s redefining how the world sees and uses recycled materials. This is your chance to play a pivotal role in a growing company with global ambition, where creativity, sustainability, and innovation go hand in hand. If you’re driven, hands-on, and ready to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.
What We Offer:
Opportunity to work for a unique, eco-driven company committed to repurposing waste materials for sustainable solutions.
Competitive salary: up to £41,000 per annum depending on experience.
Bonus Scheme
Company Share Option EMI Scheme
Company pension contribution
Full-time hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday – Flexible start and finish times
Small, friendly work environment fostering growth and development.
Emphasis on multi-skilling and personal growth; employees are encouraged to explore various roles and responsibilities beyond their job titles.