Key Account Manager

Key Account Manager Location: Michigan, USA About the Client and the Role Our client is a globally operating automotive supplier with its headquarters in Asia , currently investing significantly in expanding its North American footprint . The business designs and manufactures a broad portfolio of automotive components and systems , supplying customers across multiple vehicle platforms and segments. As part of its U.S. growth strategy, the company is seeking a Key Account Manager to support and develop relationships with Japanese OEMs and Tier 1 customers based in Michigan. This role will play a critical part in strengthening customer intimacy, supporting localisation efforts, and driving long-term commercial growth in the region. Key Responsibilities Act as the primary commercial interface for assigned Japanese OEM and Tier 1 customer accounts Develop and strengthen long-term customer relationships, supporting the client’s expansion strategy in the U.S. Identify and pursue new business opportunities within existing and target customer platforms Lead RFQ, quotation, and commercial negotiation activities in collaboration with global and regional teams Ensure all commercial targets are met, including pricing, margins, ROI, and investment approvals Develop customer-specific account strategies aligned with regional and global objectives Coordinate closely with engineering, program management, operations, and finance teams to support customer requirements Maintain accurate sales forecasting, volume planning, and account reporting Monitor customer strategies, competitive activity, and market trends within the Japanese automotive sector Plan and participate in regular customer meetings and business reviews Ensure customer specifications, RFQ inputs, and commercial data are clearly communicated and maintained within internal systems Maintain strict confidentiality and uphold professional standards in all customer interactions Skills and Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related discipline Minimum 3+ years of automotive sales or key account management experience Prior experience managing Japanese OEM or Tier 1 customer accounts , such as Toyota, Nissan, Honda , or equivalent organisations Strong understanding of automotive products, manufacturing processes, and programme lifecycles Proven commercial and negotiation capability within an OEM-facing environment Excellent communication skills and the ability to operate effectively in a cross-cultural, international organisation Japanese language skills advantageous, but not essential Proficiency in MS Office and CRM / sales systems Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required About CLM At CLM , we’re obsessed with creating a better executive search experience for our candidates and clients in the automotive industry. With over 25 years of international experience providing staffing solutions at C-Suite, Leadership, and Management level , we go above and beyond to ensure your needs always come first. Unfortunately, due to the high level of applications, we are not physically able to respond to every candidate. Please follow our CLM careers page for regular job updates, and we hope to support you with your next venture: Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Full-time Job function Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at CLM Search by 2x #J-18808-Ljbffr