Senior Sales Lead - Industrial Automation Software

Summary

Join a global leader in industrial automation software as a Senior Sales Lead to spearhead their expansion into the lucrative Chinese market. This leadership role offers a multi-million Euro revenue opportunity, leading a team of sales professionals, and building a foundation for sustainable growth. You will transition from existing German automotive joint ventures to native Chinese manufacturers across various sectors. This position provides the chance to join an established company while building something significant, with clear advancement opportunities. Extensive travel (70-90%) within China and quarterly international travel is required. The role includes a competitive salary and attractive bonus structure.

Requirements

• 15+ years of enterprise software sales experience in China with proven track record
• Native Mandarin fluency plus professional proficiency in German (preferred) OR English
• Deep understanding of industrial automation, factory operations, and industrial IT/OT environments
• Proven track record selling technology solutions to automotive manufacturers in China
• Demonstrated leadership experience building, leading, and scaling sales teams
• Bachelor's degree required
• Willingness to travel 70-90% (primarily domestic China, quarterly international)
• Experience navigating complex B2B sales cycles with multiple stakeholders

Responsibilities

• Drive revenue growth targeting €1M+ ARR through new client acquisition and strategic partnerships
• Expand market presence by transitioning from existing German automotive joint ventures to native Chinese manufacturers in automotive, pharmaceutical, and food & beverage sectors
• Lead and develop a team of 3 sales and marketing professionals based in China
• Build and maintain C-level relationships with major Chinese industrial companies including automotive manufacturers like BYD, JAC, and Geely
• Design and execute winning go-to-market strategies for complex, multi-stakeholder sales cycles
• Navigate complex sales processes with multiple decision-makers using consultative selling approaches
• Manage pipeline development, qualification, and deal closure for enterprise-level contracts
• Collaborate with global teams including Marketing, Product, Strategy, and Client Success
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and trade shows
• Travel extensively (70-90%) to meet clients, partners, and prospects across China
• Participate in quarterly international travel for internal meetings and global trade shows
• Complete onboarding process including up to 2 weeks training in Germany

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with industrial automation technology providers (Siemens, Bosch, PTC, etc.)
• Track record of securing €1M+ recurring revenue contracts
• Existing relationships within Chinese automotive, pharmaceutical, or food & beverage sectors
• MBA or advanced technical degree
• Experience selling into major Chinese automotive companies (BYD, JAC, Geely, etc.)
• Background in industrial production or factory environments

Benefits

• Competitive Salary : €100,000 - €180,000 base salary (exceptional candidates up to €180,000)
• Performance Bonuses : Attractive bonus structure tied to revenue targets and business growth
• Career Growth : Clear advancement opportunities to Country Manager or Regional Head roles
• Relocation Support : Available for exceptional candidates requiring assistance
• Remote Flexibility : Work remotely with flexible location within China (Shenzhen, Beijing, or Shanghai areas preferred)
• International Training : Paid onboarding and training in Germany
• Travel Support : Full support for extensive domestic and international travel requirements