Technical Sales Manager (Product Specialist) | Lubrizol Fluid Engineering Portfolio

Who are we?

SOLEVO is a leading distributor of chemicals and inputs for specific industrial and agricultural segments in Africa. SOLEVO assists African farmers and Industries succeed by providing them with a full range of fertilizers, seeds, crop protection products and industrial chemicals they need with a guaranteed quality and good value. With over 75 years at the frontier of economic growth and transformation across Africa, we deliver critical raw materials and expertise to the continent’s high GDP-contributing life sciences and industrials sectors.

About the partnership | LUBRIZOL SOLEVO Group is an authorised distributor of Lubrizol's industrial fluid solutions across 16 African markets. The partnership combines Lubrizol's global technical expertise and innovative product portfolio with Solevo's extensive African distribution network, local market knowledge, and technical support capabilities.

The portfolio includes Emkarate™ refrigeration lubricants, Paratherm™ heat transfer fluids, Lubrizol™ industrial compressor lubricants, system cleaners, and other specialised fluid engineering solutions.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Technical Sales Manager (Product Specialist, Lubrizol Fluid Engineering Portfolio) to develop this portfolio and build sustainable business across key markets. The role is based in Johannesburg or Cape Town, South Africa (other locations may be considered for the right candidate).

The key responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the sales plan for the Lubrizol Fluid Engineering portfolio.

• Identify and convert opportunities in refrigeration, air conditioning, heat transfer systems, industrial compressors, and related applications.

• Build relationships with end users, OEMs, refrigeration contractors, engineering companies, distributors, and other channel partners.

• Provide technical guidance and recommend appropriate products for customer applications; strong support will be provided by Solevo and Lubrizol.

• Support Solevo country teams with product training, technical presentations, and opportunity development.

• Manage the sales pipeline, forecasts, budgets, and business development activities.

• Work closely with Lubrizol's technical and commercial teams.

• Monitor market trends, competitors, pricing, and new opportunities.

• Travel occasionally for key customer meetings, training, and industry events.

This is an individual contributor role with no direct reports. The successful candidate will be expected to work independently while collaborating closely with Solevo's country teams and Lubrizol's specialists.

If you possess…

Must-Have:

• A relevant qualification in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, refrigeration, lubrication, or a related technical discipline, or experience with Lubrizol or similar products.

• Proven technical sales or business development experience in industrial lubricants, refrigeration oils, heat transfer fluids, or compressor lubricants.

• A good understanding of consultative and solution-based selling.

• Demonstrated ability to develop new markets and manage opportunities from identification through to conversion.

• Strong technical presentation, communication, and relationship management skills.

• Fluent English is essential.

Nice-to-Have:

• French or Portuguese language skills would be an advantage.

If you are…

• Self-motivated and comfortable working independently in a hybrid environment.

• Willing to undertake limited business travel when required.

• Able to tackle complex problems effectively and adapt to fast-paced environments.

• Proven track record of working effectively in remote/hybrid team settings, demonstrating flexibility, and contributing positively to a collaborative work environment.

Why join Solevo?

• This is an opportunity to take ownership of a world-class technical portfolio and help build a new growth platform for Solevo across Africa.

• Benefit from Lubrizol's global product and technical expertise, supported by Solevo's strong local presence and established commercial network.

• Join a young dynamic team who is leading the chemical distribution on the African continent.

• Enjoy a collaborative, international and agile work environment.

• Be part of a team where freedom, initiative and 'thinking out of the box' is key.

• Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits package.

• Explore opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Then, this job is for you!

How to join us?

If you're excited about this position, we encourage you to submit your resume detailing your relevant experience and be part of our exciting journey.

Learn more about the partnership:

What's next ?

If your profile matches our search, you will be contacted by our HR team for a first contact.

Please be informed that we will keep your profile to contact you for future professional opportunities.