International Sales Manager | UK

Our client, a leading provider of high-end architectural lighting solutions, is looking for an International Specification Manager (ISM) to oversee product specifications for global projects and ensure compliance with international standards. This role requires close collaboration with sales, marketing, and product development teams to align products with regional regulations and customer needs. The ISM will play a crucial role in expanding international business by supporting global projects and engaging with key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Product Specification & Compliance

• Manage the development and maintenance of product specifications for international projects originating from the assigned territory.
• Ensure all specifications meet local regulatory standards, industry guidelines, and customer expectations.
• Stay updated on technical regulations in key overseas markets, including emergency lighting requirements and maximum operating temperatures for external products.
• Work with internal teams to tailor product specifications for different markets and ensure compliance with local laws.

International Business Development

• Support sales teams in developing international project business, fostering strong relationships with key contacts in regional subsidiaries.
• Identify new business opportunities, maintain strong relationships with specifiers, and engage in business development to drive international sales growth.
• Conduct market research to analyze product needs, competitor specifications, and emerging industry trends.
• Provide recommendations for product adaptations based on regional market insights.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Coordinate with product development and sales teams to translate customer and market requirements into accurate specifications.
• Act as a liaison between the company and international clients regarding technical product details and project requirements.
• Deliver effective presentations and case studies to promote solutions in international markets.

Customer Engagement & Technical Support

• Build and maintain relationships with specifiers, architects, consultants, and key decision-makers involved in international projects.
• Provide technical support and product training to international clients and partners.
• Ensure a seamless project execution process, coordinating between specification managers and regional sales teams.
• Offer comprehensive project updates, including delivery timelines, regulatory requirements, and compliance standards.

Reporting & Process Improvement

• Maintain accurate documentation of specifications, compliance reports, and technical documentation.
• Develop and present regular performance reports for key stakeholders.
• Drive internal process improvements to enhance efficiency in managing global specifications and project execution.
• Translate strategic business objectives into actionable processes to support international growth.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Education & Industry Knowledge

• Engineering degree, ideally with additional training in business management or project management.
• Strong understanding of LED and lighting technologies.
• Expertise in international regulatory standards (e.g., CE, UL, ISO).

Experience

• Minimum of five years of experience in lighting sales, specification management, or international business development.
• Proven track record in managing complex international projects.
• Experience working with Consulting Engineers, Lighting Designers, and Architects is a plus.

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to work independently while coordinating with global teams.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for engaging with both technical and commercial stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced international environment.
• Proficiency in CRM (Dynamics), ERP tools, and Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word).
• Knowledge of lighting design software (Dialux, Relux) and BIM experience is a plus.
• Fluent in English; additional language skills (Italian, French, German, etc.) are beneficial.

Working Conditions

• Full-time position with frequent international travel.
• Ability to travel to factories, project sites, and regional offices for client meetings and project coordination.
• Integration within a local team while leveraging office facilities and sample stock based on business needs.

This is a fantastic opportunity to drive international business growth in the architectural lighting industry. If you have the experience and skills to succeed in this role, we would love to hear from you.