Service Sales Manager - Cottage Grove - GEA

Description

Responsibilities / Tasks

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we're not just building equipment, we're building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 8 + years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide.

• Start strong – Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day
• Recharge and refresh – Enjoy 12 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO to relax or explore
• Invest in your future – A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster
• Keep learning – Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset
• Live well – Our wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits
• Get support when you need it – Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional guidance
• Save smart – Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts to manage out-of-pocket expenses

The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $115,000 - $150,000 per year. GEA Group has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States.

The pay range is not guaranteed compensation or salary. The estimated range is the budgeted amount for the position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications, and other job-related reasons. You may be eligible for additional rewards, such as a discretionary bonus (based on eligibility) and/or equity awards.

Position Summary
The Service Sales Manager – Beverage will be responsible for promoting and securing sales of spare parts, repairs, field service, upgrades, customized service projects, and service level agreements across the North American beverage service business. This role plays a key part in implementing GEA's group-wide service sales strategy, ensuring a coordinated approach with New Equipment Sales to identify and maximize joint opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Director of Service Sales and other business units to refine and execute the service sales strategy within the Beverage segment.
• Lead and prioritize service sales activities, initiatives, and opportunities for the Beverage market.
• Manage service sales planning, forecasting, and reporting for the assigned area.
• Align closely with new equipment and project sales teams to ensure a seamless, coordinated sales approach.
• Identify and develop new service sales opportunities to drive growth.
• Actively manage and grow key customer accounts while developing long-term partnerships.
• Partner with new equipment sales teams to identify and deliver up-sell and cross-sell opportunities that increase revenue and enhance customer experience.
• Represent GEA Service – Beverage North America in a professional manner by driving sales of spare parts, repairs, field service, upgrades, and service products designed to improve customers' operational efficiency and performance.

Sales Execution

• Travel to potential and existing clients to secure opportunities, orders, and agreements. Conduct presentations and demonstrations to support and enhance the sales process.
• Promote service agreements, small-scale projects, and large plant Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Prepare, present, and follow up on quotations, ensuring timely execution of sales.
• Participate in offer, quotation, and contract negotiations (including terms & conditions).
• Develop effective proposals in collaboration with internal GEA stakeholders to provide optimal value to customers.
• Maintain accurate records and updates in sales tools and CRM systems.
• Represent GEA at trade shows, promoting service sales in coordination with new equipment sales.
• Provide market intelligence for management, including competitor activities and market trends.
• Leverage all available GEA resources—including field service technicians, product specialists, and equipment sales representatives—to support business growth.

Your Profile / Qualifications

Experience & Education

• Minimum 5 years of experience in service sales or capital equipment sales.
• Strong knowledge of the pharmaceutical and/or beverage manufacturing industries, including processes and equipment for solid and liquid products.
• Proven ability to work independently in a remote environment with frequent travel.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing service sales strategies.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Business Management (preferred) or equivalent relevant experience.
• Willingness to travel up to 75% of the time; some international travel is required.

Competencies & Skills

• Entrepreneurial mindset with strong customer focus and a drive to achieve results.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills with the ability to establish trust and credibility with decision makers and influencers.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to identify and capture new business opportunities.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, across all organizational levels.
• Ability to influence, negotiate, and persuade internal and external stakeholders.
• Resilient and adaptable, maintaining performance under pressure while embracing change and continuous improvement.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate market trends and competitor actions.
• Collaborative team player who supports company strategies and goals with enthusiasm.

Interpersonal Strengths

• Active listener who communicates constructively and effectively.
• Customer-centric, prioritizing client needs and ensuring high levels of satisfaction.
• Respectful, empathetic, and professional in all interactions.
• Open-minded and flexible, with the ability to adapt proven strategies to new challenges.

At GEA, we don't just offer jobs, we offer opportunities to thrive, grow, and make an impact.

#engineeringforthebetter

GEA Group is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all clients and employees feel welcomed, accepted, and valued. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

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