Sales Manager | Shipping Industry

Milan, Italy

Join a global leader in industrial automation and power system solutions

About Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL)

At Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL), we design and manufacture technology that makes electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical. Our work protects critical infrastructure around the world, and our people are driven by purpose, collaboration, and long-term thinking.

Guided by our Values, Principles of Operations, and World Class Manufacturing philosophy, SEL offers an environment where professionals can grow, take ownership, and make a real-world impact—locally and globally.

The Opportunity

SEL is seeking a Sales Manager - Shipping Industry to drive business growth across the maritime sector.

This role is ideal for a sales professional with a strong network and proven experience within the shipping industry. You will work closely with shipowners, shipyards, marine OEMs, vessel operators, engineering companies, and other key stakeholders to promote SEL's automation, protection, and control solutions.

As a trusted advisor to customers, you will identify opportunities, develop long-term relationships, and help customers address operational and technical challenges through innovative solutions.

What You'll Do

• Develop and execute sales strategies to expand SEL's presence within the shipping and maritime industry.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with shipowners, shipyards, marine OEMs, vessel operators, EPCs, and other industry stakeholders.
• Identify new business opportunities and drive growth across strategic maritime accounts.
• Work closely with customers to understand their operational and technical needs and propose appropriate SEL solutions.
• Collaborate with Application Engineers and other technical teams to deliver customer-focused solutions.
• Manage sales opportunities throughout the full sales cycle, from prospecting to order closure.
• Maintain accurate sales forecasts and pipeline visibility.
• Represent SEL at industry events, conferences, technical meetings, and customer engagements.
• Continuously develop expertise in SEL products, solutions, and maritime industry trends.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in technical sales, business development, or account management within the shipping or maritime industry.
• Proven track record of developing customer relationships and driving business growth.
• Strong understanding of the shipping industry's challenges, market dynamics, and stakeholder landscape.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to engage effectively with both technical and commercial decision-makers.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently within a global organization.
• Willingness to travel regularly across the region.

Language Requirements

• English: Advanced / Fluent (required)
• Italian: Advanced / Native (required)
• Additional European languages are a plus

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience selling automation, control, electrical, energy, digitalization, or industrial technology solutions.
• Existing network within shipowners, shipyards, marine system integrators, or maritime operators.
• Technical background or ability to discuss engineering solutions with customers.

Why Join SEL?

You'll play a visible role in one of our fastest-growing regions, working in a global, values-driven organization with real impact and autonomy.

• Starting salary from €50,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Permanent contract.
• Based in Milan, Italy.
• Restaurant vouchers worth approximately €160 per month.
• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.
• Wellbeing benefit to support your health and work-life balance.
• Additional company-funded benefits and employee support programs.
• Employment under the CCNL Metalmeccanico Industria (Federmeccanica).
• Opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and international collaboration.