Category Manager - S3 Air Systems

About the Role

S3 Group is seeking an experienced, results-driven Category Manager to lead the strategic growth and development of our Air Systems product line.

Reporting directly to the VP of Sales, the Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing category sales strategies, driving profitable revenue growth, strengthening key OEM and distributor relationships, and expanding market opportunities.

This position plays an important role in connecting Sales, Marketing, Engineering, and Production to ensure S3 Group's product offerings remain competitive and aligned with customer needs. The successful candidate will also provide product expertise, strategic direction, and sales support to Regional Sales Representatives and U.S. Independent Sales Representatives.

This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded sales professional with strong industry knowledge, strategic account management experience, and a passion for growing business.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category sales strategies, annual growth plans, and product positioning for assigned product lines.
• Take ownership of category performance, including revenue growth, profitability, margins, and market share.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with major OEM customers, distributors, and strategic accounts.
• Develop account plans, joint business initiatives, and sales forecasts for key OEM and distributor partners.
• Provide product expertise, competitive intelligence, and sales direction to Regional Sales Representatives.
• Guide, train, and support U.S. Independent Sales Representatives to strengthen product representation and expand market penetration.
• Identify new markets, product applications, channel partners, and business development opportunities.
• Coordinate product launches, sales tools, promotional activities, and go-to-market initiatives in collaboration with Marketing and Engineering.
• Partner with Regional Sales Representatives on strategic customer visits, complex sales opportunities, and dealer development.
• Work closely with Inside Sales to ensure accurate quotations, timely follow-up, and a positive customer experience.
• Communicate market trends, customer feedback, and product requirements to Engineering, Production, and company leadership.
• Monitor competitor products, pricing strategies, market trends, and customer return on investment.
• Develop pricing recommendations and maintain margin discipline within established company guidelines.
• Maintain accurate sales forecasts, opportunity pipelines, and strategic account information within CRM and other company systems.
• Attend customer meetings, trade shows, and industry conferences as required.
• Collaborate across departments to address customer needs and resolve escalated commercial issues.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the VP of Sales and comply with the S3 Group Safety Manual.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of sales experience in agricultural equipment, manufacturing, or a related industry.
• Demonstrated success selling technical or multiple product offerings through OEM, distributor, or dealer channels.
• Experience managing strategic accounts, negotiating commercial agreements, and developing long-term customer relationships.
• Strong business development, strategic planning, and market analysis capabilities.
• Excellent negotiation, problem-solving, and relationship management skills.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive customer and commercial information.
• Highly organized with strong time-management skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-directed and accountable, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and CRM/ERP systems.
• Willingness and ability to travel to customer locations, company facilities, and industry events as required.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for a strategic and commercially focused sales professional who understands how to grow product categories, develop key customer relationships, and identify new business opportunities.

The ideal candidate brings a combination of sales leadership, technical product knowledge, and strong business acumen. They are comfortable managing strategic accounts, supporting a sales team, negotiating commercial opportunities, and working cross-functionally to achieve company objectives.

If you are an experienced sales professional who thrives on building relationships, developing markets, and driving profitable growth, we want to hear from you!