Business Development Manager – Automotive OEM & Tier Supplier Solutions

Working at Freudenberg: We will wow your world! Responsibilities: Develop and execute growth strategies to expand business with automotive OEMs and their supplier networks. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across engineering, manufacturing, operations, purchasing, quality, maintenance, and sustainability functions. Drive lubricant specification, approval, and adoption programs to secure placement on OEM-approved product lists. Identify and convert new business opportunities across vehicle assembly, EV, battery, powertrain, and manufacturing programs. Partner with OEMs and Tier 1-3 suppliers to implement technical lubrication solutions that improve productivity, reduce downtime, and lower total cost of ownership. Lead technical evaluations, product trials, validation activities, and performance improvement initiatives. Manage strategic accounts, maintain a robust sales pipeline, forecast revenue opportunities, and conduct executive-level customer reviews. Monitor automotive industry trends, competitive activity, and emerging technologies to identify new growth opportunities and strengthen market position. Visit customer facilities/plants and perform equipment inspections which require the use of personal protective equipment or other onsite required gear Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Technical Sales, Business, Chemistry, Tribology, or related field. MBA preferred. 7+ years of automotive business development, technical sales, or account management experience. Experience selling into automotive OEMs and Tier suppliers. Proven success navigating complex manufacturing organizations. Experience with industrial lubricants, specialty chemicals, metalworking fluids, process chemicals, assembly materials, automation solutions, or related technologies. Preferred experience in automotive assembly processes, manufacturing engineering, lubrication technology, EV/battery manufacturing, robotics and automation, OEM approval processes, IATF 16949 environment. ‎ ‎ The Freudenberg Group is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion. Employment opportunities are available to all applicants and associates without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, genetic information, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Klüber Lubrication NA LP