Transportation Sales Account Manager- Detroit

Tempel is looking to add a Strategic Account Manager to our Transportation commercial team! The Strategic Account Manager will be responsible for growing sales and market share within assigned strategic accounts and territories within the Transportation segment. They will drive profitable growth and strengthen Tempel’s position as a trusted business partner for electric motor cores. This role requires strong relationship management, strategic thinking, and collaboration across multiple departments including Engineering, Operations, Marketing, Quality, and Customer Service. The ideal candidate will have a proven background within the automotive, motorsports, rail or aerospace industries, demonstrate exceptional communication and negotiation skills, and have a passion for developing long-term, value-based customer relationships.

Tempel is a global leader in precision magnetic steel laminations for motors, generators, and transformers. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and customer service has made us a trusted partner in industries such as automotive, industrial, and renewable energy. At Tempel, we foster a team-oriented culture with opportunities for development and career growth.

If you're still wondering why you should join our team, here’s a quick list of reasons:

• Competitive pay
• Benefits start Day 1 – including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) (with company contribution and employee match)
• Performance-based pay increases
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Work with a team that values safety, innovation, and continuous improvement

Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage the B2B relationship between Tempel and assigned strategic accounts with the goal of achieving profitable sales growth
• Research key accounts and market trends to identify new business opportunities (prospecting) and maintain a strong understanding of customer needs, competitors, and industry dynamics
• Establish and maintain value-based strategic relationships that position Tempel as a preferred business partner
• Lead supply negotiations leveraging Tempel’s global footprint and market leadership
• Develop and maintain detailed account plans, including SWOT analysis, business volume projections, competitive positioning, and strategic growth initiatives
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure high-quality service and support for all customer needs
• Identify, pursue, and accurately forecast new business opportunities to support long-term growth (sales funnel)
• Drive value-added activities using all available Tempel resources to strengthen customer partnerships
• Negotiate contractual terms and conditions in collaboration with management and internal stakeholders
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and professional development opportunities
• Ability to read and interpret a detailed part drawing
• Perform other duties as assigned

Desired Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Business or equivalent career experience
• 5–10 years of experience in key account management within one of the industries mentioned above
• Proven success in B2B sales and consultative or value-based selling approaches
• Strong negotiation, organizational, and leadership skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across diverse teams and geographies
• Deep understanding of key markets such as automotive, motorsports, and aerospace
• Experience using CRM systems (MS Dynamics, Salesforce, or similar) preferred

Work Environment:
This position requires approximately 60% domestic travel and residence within the mid-west (home office). The Strategic Account Manager operates in a professional, fast-paced environment with frequent collaboration across departments and regular interaction with external partners and customers. 

About Us:
Hesitant to apply because you may not meet every specific requirement? If this role interests you, we encourage you to apply! At Tempel, we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We recognize that individuals with diverse experiences and backgrounds are essential to our success. You may be the perfect candidate for this role or another within our organization.

Tempel is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, disability, or veteran’s status.