Technical Key Account Manager

Job description

SUMMARY

The individual in this role serves as a Technical Account Manager with business-unit-level influence and is generally recognized as a subject-matter expert within the Softline business unit. The Technical Manager serves as an embedded technical resource supporting Retailer's Product Development, Materials, Quality, and Sourcing teams. The role provides fabric and materials expertise, technical consultation, supplier engagement support, testing and quality guidance, fabric qualification activities, and commercialization support throughout the product development lifecycle.

The position acts as a bridge between Retailer teams, suppliers, and SGS global testing, inspection, and technical specialists to accelerate material validation, improve quality consistency, mitigate risk, and support innovation initiatives.

JOB FUNCTIONS

Lead material development, qualification, and commercialization by evaluating materials, defining testing and validation strategies, and ensuring products meet quality, performance, sustainability, regulatory, and commercial requirements. Serve as the primary technical advisor throughout the product development lifecycle by providing guidance on materials, specifications, testing results, risk mitigation, quality improvements, and supplier technical capabilities.

Manage global testing, benchmarking, and technical program execution by maintaining testing protocols, technical specifications, quality standards, and supporting special projects that meet customer and retailer requirements. Analyze testing data and performance trends to identify risks, drive continuous improvement, strengthen product quality, support informed decision-making, and implement innovative testing and digital solutions.

Collaborate with retailers, suppliers, SGS subject matter experts, and the Global Key Account Manager to deliver strategic account objectives, resolve technical challenges, ensure seamless program execution, and enhance customer satisfaction and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent educational background in Analytical Sciences, Engineering and Business relevant education, AND Minimum of 5 year experience in account management, customer services or other relevant experience for the position with successful track record, AND Minimum of 3 year experience in the TIC industry for the relevant business unit, AND Experience in international / multi-cultural environments KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES Language Skills: English, Advanced required, other language skills are a plus
• Strong account management, negotiation and relationship building skills
• Strong leadership skills with excellent communication and presentation skills Computer Skills: - Proficient in Microsoft suite (Word, Excel, Access, Power Point, and Outlook) required.

Computer literacy (creating, filing, saving/uploading, searching, backup, etc.). Self-driven, results oriented, and able to work independently in a fast paced environment. Strong problem-solving and organizational skills. TRAVEL Travels up to 10-20% of time. Some travel might be international.