The Sales Manager, reporting to the Head of Sales, Industrial Nonwovens is responsible for driving the commercial success of Nonwovens products across North America. This role focuses on sales growth, customer relationship management, and executing regional market strategies. The Sales Manager plays a crucial role in expanding Ahlstrom's market presence and achieving profitability targets. The position is available across locations within the United States. Main Responsibilites & Key Tasks: Sales and Commercial Management • Ensure the commercial success of Nonwovens sales activities within the region: manage an existing portfolio and focus on prospecting and new customers database development • Define and implement regional sales, growth, and product strategies in collaboration with the Sales Leadership Team and Product Management. • Build and manage a robust sales pipeline, with systematic updates in Customer Connect (CRM). • Achieve and exceed key performance indicators, including growth, revenue, profitability, and operational efficiency. Market Development and Customer Relations • Develop deep market insights to guide strategic decisions and customer engagement initiatives. • Represent Ahlstrom at trade shows, industry events, and external organizations to enhance brand visibility and industry positioning. • Lead customer negotiations, ensuring alignment with internal sales processes, contract standards, and commercial policies. Collaboration and Internal Coordination • Partner with logistics, technical (R&D, TCS), customer service teams, and production planning to deliver integrated customer solutions and foster profitable growth. • Collaborate with the local Windsor Locks plant, to ensure proper inventory management and production planning/forecasting. • Contribute to the annual target-setting and budgeting process alongside Sales Leadership. • Monitor regional sales performance, provide regular reporting, and initiate corrective actions where needed. • Manage customer financial health, including receivables, payment terms, and credit risk assessments. • Lead and develop a direct report Specific skills & competencies: • Growth mindset and motivation to develop a high potential geographical area. • Equivalent work experience in paper/nonwovens or similar B2B materials industries is also valued. • Expeience in negotiation and communication, with the ability to manage complex commercial engagements. • Problem-solving and organizational skills. • Leadership ability and effective cross-functional collaboration skills. • Proficiency in CRM tools and Microsoft Office suite. • Comprehensive understanding of the business environment and end-to-end commercial processes. • Ability to develop and implement long-term strategies that align with company goals. • Customer-Centric Approach: Focus on understanding and meeting customer needs to build lasting relationships. • Proficiency in analyzing market trends, sales data, and financial reports to make informed decisions. • Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey ideas clearly and persuasively. • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely and successful completion. • Encouraging creative solutions and new approaches to improve sales processes and outcomes. • Willingness to travel extensively (at least 50% of the time).