Technology Solutions Sales Lead

Are you interested in turning industrial chemistry research and technology into commercially viable solutions and long-term customer relationships? Would you like to lead solution sales activities, build a robust sales pipeline and work closely with top research and sales experts? Do you want to operate at the interface of applied research, customer needs and industry? VTT might be just the place for you. VTT is a forerunner in research, development and innovation, and one of Europe’s leading research organisations. We develop cutting-edge technologies and transform them into growth together with our customers and partners. Our solutions address the greatest challenges of our time while creating sustainable growth, jobs and wellbeing. With more than 80 years of experience, we accelerate the journey from innovation to impact. By thinking beyond the obvious, we drive growth, renewal and resilience. We are looking for an experienced Technology Solution Sales Lead to drive commercial growth and lead solution sales in Industrial Chemistry. As a Technology Solution Sales Lead , you will act as a senior expert and driver of solution sales within our Industrial Chemistry area, focusing on developing sustainable chemical processes, recycling technologies and side-stream alternatives to address the global transition towards a circular economy. Our key motivation is to turn inventions into innovations through collaboration with our customers. You will help and coach our teams in technology transfer, coordinate and execute sales activities, lead business activities within the research area and proactively seek new business opportunities, turning leads into orders. You can work either from our Espoo or Tampere office. As a Technology Solutions Sales Lead, you will: Plan, coordinate and execute sales activities and build and maintain the sales pipeline together with research area leaders, researchers and stakeholders in Customer Operations. Acquire new customers and drive sales growth in the fields of industrial chemical processes and upgrading, plastic and battery recycling, processing and refining of critical raw materials. Develop a deep understanding of customer needs and industry trends, and consult the business on the creation and development of offerings and service models according to VTT’s sales guidelines. Participate in negotiations, think holistically to create cross-VTT offers and ensure that all relevant aspects, including pricing, deliverables and trade regulations, are taken into account. Ensure continued business relationships with existing customers, follow up offers and drive customer orders to closure. Lead the research area’s sales and marketing planning together with the Sales Director and VP, and plan and execute marketing and sales activities, including systematic networking at events and exhibitions. Implement frame agreements, ensure compliance with valid customer-specific agreements, collaboration models and pricing models, and coach researchers in customer centricity and solution sales practices. Coordinate activities with research teams to commercially transfer VTT’s IPR portfolio to customers when relevant to their needs. Required experience and knowledge: A relevant Master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, industrial management or a related field. A track record of growing business and exceeding sales targets in the field of industrial chemistry. Several years of experience in a hands-on sales role in value-based and consultative solution sales, including a demonstrated ability to sell project entities and solutions tailored to specific customer needs. A demonstrated track record of building strategic alignment with customers, managing customer relationships, understanding customer needs and enabling customers’ business growth. The ability to create compelling value propositions based on organisational capabilities and customer needs. Strong understanding of pricing models, contractual alternatives and intellectual property rights. The ability to collaborate with internal stakeholders in a matrix organisation and engage relevant people in building winning cases. Good communication skills in English, both oral and written. Other language skills, such as Finnish, German or French, are considered an advantage. Excellent negotiation and networking skills, supported by an established and functioning business network. As a person, we hope that you: Truly enjoy working with customers and are motivated by finding solutions for them. Have a collaborative mindset and the ambition to drive results and close deals, motivating and influencing colleagues and customers through effective collaboration. Are an energetic and dynamic professional who thrives on proactively pursuing leads and contacting sales prospects and new customers. Take a proactive approach and have a desire to develop sales in the research area. Have an analytical mindset and appreciate a systematic approach to sales. With VT