Senior Sales Manager
Location: Manchester
Salary: £60,000 – £80,000 per annum + Bonus + Benefits
Type: Permanent, Full-Time
A strategic commercial leadership opportunity within an established and growing UK chemical manufacturer.
LiCa Scientific is working in partnership with a leading fine chemical manufacturing business to appoint a Senior Sales Manager. This is a permanent position, based in Manchester, that will contribute to the ongoing success and international growth.
This role will operate principally across three commercial areas:
* Fuel additives (the company’s primary business field)
* Technical services, including solution consultancy and brand/supply chain management
* Reformulated chemicals and new market development
The company is well-positioned for continued expansion in both established and emerging international markets. Operating in a regulated and technically complex environment.
The Role
This is a high-impact sales leadership role, defining and executing sales strategies, managing a team of commercial professionals, and driving performance standards across multiple business areas.
You will report to the Commercial Manager and take responsibility for leading a team of Key Account Managers and Sales Executives. Maintaining the high standards of delivery, service, process discipline, and commercial integrity.
While this role requires strong process and operational control, it also allows freedom to explore opportunities. This will include developing new markets in a ‘blue sky’ or ‘first principles’ manner.
The ideal candidate will therefore bring both commercial curiosity and structured discipline. You will be able to combine your vision and enthusiasm for new pathways, with strong day-to-day execution.
Key Responsibilities
Sales Strategy and Planning
* Develop and implement sales strategies in alignment with overall business objectives
* Provide strategic insight into evolving market trends and identify areas for growth
* Contribute to long-term commercial planning, budgeting and forecasting
* Monitor performance data and lead adjustments to ensure continued momentum
Leadership and Team Management
* Lead and develop a high-performing sales team, providing coaching, guidance and performance management
* Set and monitor individual and team KPIs
* Drive collaboration across commercial, operations, technical, and customer service functions
Customer and Market Development
* Act as a senior point of contact for key customer relationships
* Manage and grow existing client accounts through deep engagement and reliable delivery
* Identify and pursue new business opportunities, both in the UK and internationally
* Lead cross-functional efforts to deliver customer satisfaction and long-term value
Operational Excellence and Process Discipline
* Ensure compliance with reporting and documentation standards
* Maintain full visibility of pipeline activities through structured CRM use and internal systems
* Support cross-departmental coordination in line with regulatory and commercial requirements
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a candidate with a blend of strategic vision, hands-on experience, and strong interpersonal skills. The successful applicant will bring experience of both managing sales teams and contributing directly to commercial delivery in a regulated or technical industry.
Essential Skills and Experience
* Substantial commercial experience within the chemical industry or similar technical B2B markets
* Proven track record in international sales and key account management
* Experience managing or leading commercial teams
* Degree educated/equivalent in business, chemistry, marketing or a related subject
* Familiarity with working in regulated environments and across functional teams
Desirable Attributes
* A business-relevant second language
* Project management experience
* Exposure to COMAH, safety, or environmentally regulated operations
Behavioural Competencies
* Strong strategic and conceptual thinking
* Adaptable and resilient in complex and changing environments
* Skilled in rational persuasion and structured influencing
* Results-focused with a commitment to continuous improvement
* Confident, collaborative and commercially driven
What’s on Offer
* Salary of £60,000 – £80,000 per annum (depending on experience)
* Performance-related bonus and company benefits package
* A senior commercial role within a growing and well-invested organisation
* Long-term development opportunities in a stable, structured and supportive environment
* Opportunity to work on both UK and global sales initiatives