LI Commercial Director at Air Liquide

Job Summary

• The LI Commercial Director is responsible for leading and developing Air Liquide Large Industries' commercial strategy and operations within South Africa, driving profitable growth and ensuring customer satisfaction in the large industrial gas market.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive commercial strategy for Large Industries in South Africa, aligning with regional and global objectives.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the commercial team, including sales, account management, and business development personnel.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, securing long-term contracts with key industrial customers.
• Manage existing customer relationships, ensuring high levels of satisfaction, retention, and growth within the assigned portfolio.
• Negotiate and finalize complex commercial agreements, including gas supply contracts, equipment sales, and service agreements.
• Conduct market analysis, competitor intelligence, and customer segmentation to identify trends and opportunities.
• Prepare and manage the commercial budget, ensuring financial targets are met or exceeded.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, engineering, finance, and legal teams to deliver integrated solutions to customers.
• Ensure compliance with all internal policies, ethical guidelines, and relevant external regulations.
• Represent Air Liquide Large Industries at industry events, conferences, and with key stakeholders.

Are you a MATCH?

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field; an MBA is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in commercial roles within the industrial gas, energy, or chemical sectors, with at least 5 years in a leadership position.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and executing commercial strategies and achieving significant sales growth.
• Extensive experience in negotiating complex, long-term B2B contracts with large industrial clients.
• Strong understanding of the South African industrial market and customer landscape.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficient in financial analysis and budget management.
• Fluent in English; knowledge of other local languages is a plus.
• Willingness to travel extensively within South Africa and occasionally internationally.