Key Account Manager – Automotive (Remote, Germany)

About the role

We are looking for a highly motivated Key Account Manager to drive business growth with German automotive OEMs for a global Tier-1 supplier. The role bridges global engineering and manufacturing capabilities with the specific needs of the German market, overseeing the full project lifecycle from RFQ to SOP.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute account strategies for German OEMs such as VW Group, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
• Build multi-level relationships with purchasing, R&D and quality stakeholders.
• Identify new opportunities, prepare quotations and lead price negotiations.
• Coordinate project development from RFQ through SOP, aligning sales, engineering, quality, logistics and operations.
• Monitor customer requirements, market trends and competitive developments to support strategic decisions.
• Support contract reviews, business cases and margin improvement initiatives.
• Lead regular customer meetings, prepare reports and ensure timely follow-up on actions and escalations.
• Collaborate with global R&D, supply chain, quality and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless delivery.
• Manage account profitability, track receivables and resolve commercial disputes, tooling cost recoveries or warranty claims.

Required profile

• Degree in engineering, business or a related technical field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in technical sales, key account management or project management within the automotive industry, preferably with a Tier-1 supplier.
• Proven track record managing German automotive OEM accounts.
• Strong understanding of automotive supply chain, serial production environments and industry standards (IATF 16949, VDA).

Required skills

• Automotive electronics
• Sensor technology