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Form of workJob Description
THE COMPANY
Kenda Rubber (2106.TW) is a leading manufacturer of wheels and tires for ATV, bicycle, golf, industrial, light truck, mobility, motorcycle, passenger car, trailer, and utility applications. In addition to a comprehensive portfolio of Kenda brand retail products, we supply fleet volumes of wheels and tires to some of the largest vehicle manufacturers in the world. Our Reynoldsburg, Ohio location is the site of American Kenda, which manages all aspects of Kenda’s North American operations. The Powersports (motorcycle, ATV, SxS) division of American Kenda is a tight-knit, pragmatic, high-energy crew. Many of us have a passion for riding, racing, and wrenching. We work hard and play harder. Our division has experienced substantial growth and we’re seeking an enthusiastic new member of the team to grow with us.
THE WORK
In this high-visibility role you will grow and manage Kenda Powersports’ North America original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customer base including some of the best-known, highest volume powersports manufacturers in the world. You will utilize your subject matter expert (SME) knowledge in tire and wheel technologies, vehicle applications, competitor positioning, and Kenda’s unique design, logistical, and price advantages to equip OEM vehicles with Kenda products. You will actively solicit new business within established and new customer accounts, form a comprehensive understanding of technical requirements, create detailed quote packages and manage development projects directly with Kenda’s US-based R&D team and both domestic and international manufacturing operations. This position is designed for a self-motivated, detail-oriented individual with powersports and/or automotive industry experience, an ability to solve complex problems, and a strong entrepreneurial mindset.
RESPONSIBILIES INCLUDE
- Performing regular sales calls to major OEM customers across the US and Canada
- Prospecting new OEM business, conducting competitive performance and pricing analyses, and matching customer needs with existing and/or developmental products
- Negotiating terms and details of long-term commercial agreements
- Presenting executive-level product justification business cases to divisional leadership
- Project managing design and development teams to meet price and performance targets
- Creating and maintaining accurate quote and product spec data histories
- Cultivating relationships and feedback channels with OEM customer design and commercial teams
- Collaborating with cross-divisional OEM sales force, sharing and implementing best practices
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
- Knowledge of powersports / automotive industry and major OEM manufacturers
- Knowledge of tire and wheel design principles and technologies
- Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills
- Comfort working with multiple external groups and managing multiple concurrent projects
- Ability to identify and solve process inefficiencies
- Excellent organization and strategic thinking capabilities
- Friendly, approachable, team-focused
- Respect for, and ability to adhere to, firm deadlines
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Business or related field
- 2 years of experience in functional role
WORKING ENVIRONMENTS
This position may be eligible for remote work and can be performed via hybrid or in-office format from corporate office in Reynoldsburg, OH and/or US technical center in North Canton, OH. Up to 25% travel may be required. There may be times when outdoor work is required.
Kenda is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
