Director of Sales - Midwest U.S

This is a remote role when not traveling in the field.

About Maneva
Maneva, a startup founded by an ex-Google Deepmind researcher, is an AI service provider revolutionizing manufacturing operations with cutting-edge AI solutions for autonomous factory operation and optimization. Our solution generates AI-powered actions and insights using off-the-shelf hardware or existing vision systems for real-impact manufacturing problems in products and equipment inspection, production efficiency, safety, and more.

Role Overview:
Maneva is seeking an experienced Director of Sales to lead and scale a high-performing regional sales team responsible for driving customer acquisition and growth in the manufacturing sector. This role is pivotal in achieving Maneva’s vision of transforming manufacturing operations through AI.

As a Director of Sales, you will manage, mentor, and build local sales teams, ensuring their success in navigating complex sales cycles, driving client engagement, and expanding Maneva's regional footprint. Your leadership will play a critical role in developing sales strategies, fostering client relationships, and secure exceptional customer base growth.

Main Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Development:

• Mentor, lead, and build local sales teams across multiple cities in the region.
• Establish performance metrics and ensure team members meet or exceed sales targets.
• Foster a collaborative and results-driven sales culture, providing coaching and support to help team members succeed in their roles.

Sales Strategy & Execution:

• Develop and implement regional sales strategies aligned with Maneva’s goals.
• Support sales teams in building and refining a localized sales playbook, leveraging their insights to drive continuous improvement.
• Lead by example in key client engagements, demonstrating expertise in consultative selling and manufacturing challenges.
• Work closely with Maneva’s leadership team, including the CEO and CTO, to align sales efforts with product development and overall business objectives.

Client Relationship Management:

• Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with key clients and partners in the manufacturing sector.
• Identify and engage with high-value opportunities, ensuring tailored AI-powered solutions are presented to address operational challenges.
• Oversee & participate in the entire sales lifecycle, from prospecting to negotiation and close, ensuring seamless handover to implementation teams.

Market Insight & Growth:

• Stay ahead of industry trends, competitor activities, and client needs, providing actionable insights to shape Maneva’s offerings.
• Represent Maneva at industry events, conferences, and client meetings, positioning the company as a thought leader in AI-driven manufacturing solutions.

Qualifications:

• Experience: 5+ years of proven success in B2B sales management roles, preferably within the manufacturing industry.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to manage and grow high-performing sales teams, with strong coaching and mentoring skills.
• Manufacturing Expertise: In-depth understanding of manufacturing processes, quality control standards, and operational challenges.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to design and execute sales strategies that align with company goals and deliver measurable results.
• Analytical Skills: Strong proficiency in ROI analysis, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making.
• Technical Aptitude: Gain familiarity with AI-driven solutions, with the ability to articulate technical benefits to diverse stakeholders.
• Travel: Willingness to travel regionally to support team members and engage with clients as needed.

Why Join Maneva?

• Be at the forefront of AI innovation in manufacturing.
• Lead a dynamic team shaping the future of factory operations.
• Competitive salary, bonus structure, and professional growth opportunities.
• Flexible, remote-friendly work environment with travel opportunities.

If you are a strategic sales leader with a passion for driving innovation and delivering impactful solutions to the manufacturing sector, we want to hear from you!