Senior sales manager - paint industry

Profile: Senior Sales Manager - Paint Industry

Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Department: Sales & Business Development

Reporting To: Regional Sales Head / Zonal Sales Manager

CTC Budget: ₹20 LPA – ₹25 LPA

Experience Required: 8–14 years (Paint / Coatings)

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Sales Manager to lead sales operations for the Chennai/Tamil Nadu market in the paints and coatings business. The role requires strong dealer/distributor network management, channel expansion, and P& L ownership for the region, along with the ability to drive both retail and institutional/project sales.

Key Responsibilities

Own and deliver the annual sales target (volume & value) for Chennai and surrounding territories. Manage and expand the dealer/distributor/retailer network across urban and semi-urban markets. Drive primary and secondary sales through effective channel partner management and scheme execution. Lead, mentor, and manage a team of Area Sales Executives/Officers and Sales Representatives. Develop and execute go-to-market strategy for new product launches (interior/exterior emulsions, industrial coatings, wood finishes, etc.). Build and manage relationships with painters, contractors, architects, and influencers to drive brand pull. Handle institutional and project sales (builders, real estate, government projects) where applicable. Monitor competitor activity, pricing, and market trends; provide actionable market intelligence to leadership. Ensure effective implementation of trade schemes, promotional activities, and tinting machine placements. Manage receivables, credit control, and channel profitability. Prepare and present monthly/quarterly sales MIS, forecasts, and budget reviews. Ensure adherence to company policies on pricing, distribution norms, and brand guidelines.

Required Skills & Competencies

Strong understanding of paint/coatings distribution and channel sales dynamics. Proven track record of achieving/exceeding sales targets in a similar geography. Experience in dealer network development and retail activation. Strong leadership and team management skills. Excellent negotiation, relationship management, and communication skills. Data-driven approach to sales planning and territory management. Willingness to travel extensively within Chennai and Tamil Nadu. Proficiency in Tamil and English; Hindi is an added advantage.

Qualifications

Graduate in any discipline (Science/Commerce preferred); MBA in Sales & Marketing is a plus. 8+ years of relevant experience, with at least 3–4 years in a managerial/team-handling role.