Sales Manager

Tenneco is one of the world’s leading designer, manufacturers and marketers of automotive products for original equipment and aftermarket customers, with approximately 78.000 team members working at more than 300 sites worldwide. Through our four business groups, Motorparts, Ride Performance, Clean Air and Powertrain, Tenneco is driving advancements in global mobility by delivering technology solutions for diversified global markets, including light vehicle, commercial truck, off-highway, industrial, motorsport and the aftermarket.

Tenneco Braking is seeking a high performing Senior Sales Manager to lead business development and account management for the Americas Light Vehicle segment, with a strong focus on the Big Three (Ford, GM, Stellantis) and Tesla. This role will also act as Global Key Account Manager for Ford and Stellantis, coordinating activities globally in alignment with the North American strategy.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of success in both sales execution and strategic account development, with demonstrated ability hunting new opportunities while maintaining and growing existing business.  A robust network in the North American OEM ecosystem is essential.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Customer & Account Management

• Own and grow sales with Ford, GM, Stellantis, Tesla, and other key OEMs in the US and Mexico.
• Serve as Global KAM for Ford and Stellantis, aligning regional and global activities for those 2 customers.
• Act as the primary senior contact for escalations, contract negotiations, and strategic planning.
• Ensure strong customer satisfaction and long-term partnership development.

Business Development

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, focusing on new program acquisition and platform penetration.
• Expand Tenneco Braking's presence in both US and Mexican OEM markets.
• Understand and influence customer sourcing strategies and long-term roadmaps.

Sales Strategy & Execution

• Define and implement the Light Vehicle sales strategy for the Americas, aligned with global goals.
• Develop sales plans, budgets, forecasts, and performance KPIs.
• Support cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Program Management, and Supply Chain teams.

Leadership & Communication

• Coordinate global sales efforts for Stellantis and Ford, driving alignment and consistency across regions.
• Provide strategic insight to senior management on customer trends, competitive threats, and market dynamics.

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or equivalent required.MBA is a plus.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE: 

• 10+ years in automotive B2B sales, preferably with Tier 1 or braking systems suppliers.
• Strong relationships with Ford, GM, Stellantis, or Tesla highly preferred.
• Experience in both account management and business development is required.
• Hunter mindset: strong ability to identify, open, and convert new opportunities.
• Skilled negotiator with executive-level communication and influencing capabilities.
• Analytical approach to performance tracking and sales planning.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and ERP tools.
• Willingness to travel frequently across the Americas and occasionally overseas.
• Fluency in English is mandatory; Spanish is a plus.
• High energy and self-motivation.
• Customer-obsessed and results-oriented.
• Strategic thinker with hands-on problem-solving attitude.
• Culturally aware and capable of managing global stakeholder relationships.

We are committed to the safety and health of our employees. We adhere to social distancing recommendations and other protocols, ensuring a safe work environment for all.