International Business Development Manager

We are seeking a highly skilled and results-driven International Marketing Lead to spearhead the marketing and export strategies for our Specialty Chemicals division. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in international marketing, deep knowledge of global markets, and experience leading teams focused on expanding product reach and brand visibility internationally. Reporting to the Head of Marketing - Chemicals, this role is crucial for driving revenue growth through strategic marketing initiatives, customer relationship management, and brand positioning in key international markets.

1. International Marketing Strategy Development:

   • Lead the development and execution of the international marketing strategy for the Specialty Chemicals portfolio across multiple regions, with special focus on Europe region.
   • Identify high-potential markets, formulate tailored marketing plans, and position our chemical products effectively in diverse global markets.
   • Analyze global market trends, customer needs, competitor activities, and regulatory requirements to shape marketing strategies.

2. Business Development Activities:

   • Identify and pursue new business opportunities in international markets, including new customer segments, partnerships, and distribution channels.
   • Develop and maintain relationships with key international customers, and business partners, ensuring long-term business growth and sustainability.

3. Leading Export Sales:

   • Lead the export sales function, define product positioning, go-to-market strategies, and promotional campaigns aimed at expanding the company’s international presence.
   • Oversee the development of customized marketing initiatives and sales collateral for specific international markets, driving demand and increasing market share.
   • Define pricing, promotional strategies, and coordinate product launches in international markets, ensuring alignment with local market conditions and customer preferences.

4. Market Research and Customer Insights:

   • Conduct in-depth market research and competitor analysis to identify emerging opportunities and challenges in key export markets.
   • Utilize customer feedback, market data, and performance metrics to drive decision-making and refine marketing strategies.

5. Cross-functional Collaboration:

   • Work closely with internal teams, including Production, Quality, and Supply Chain, to align marketing strategies with product capabilities, legal requirements, and operational capacities.
   • Foster strong relationships with external stakeholders such as key customers, and industry partners to promote the company’s products in target markets.

6. Budget and Performance Management:

   • Manage the international marketing budget effectively, ensuring optimal allocation of resources across various marketing channels and campaigns.
   • Monitor and evaluate the success of marketing initiatives through KPIs and ROI analysis, making data-driven adjustments as needed.

7. Leadership & Team Development:

   • Lead and mentor a team of marketing professionals, driving their performance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
   • Build strong internal capabilities in global marketing and export functions.
8. Risk Management
   • Identify and mitigate risks associated with exporting, such as currency fluctuations, geopolitical issues, and supply chain disruptions.

• Education:

  • Master's degree in Marketing, IB, or related field.

• Experience:

  • Minimum of 8-10 years of international marketing experience, with at least 4 years in a leadership role, ideally within the Specialty Chemicals, Chemical, or related industrial sectors.

• Skills and Competencies:

  • Strong understanding of global markets, trends, and regulatory environments in the specialty chemicals sector.
  • Expertise in B2B marketing, with the ability to translate technical product benefits into value propositions for diverse international audiences.
  • Strong leadership, team-building, and mentoring skills.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across various organizational levels and cultures.
  • Fluency in English (additional languages a plus).

• Other Requirements:

  • Willingness to travel internationally as required.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic, and global environment.