ViskoTeepak is a world leader in sales and manufacturing of cellulose, fibrous and plastic casings for the food industry. With our 6 manufacturing and converting plants and our 5 sales offices around the world we employ around 1100 people. ViskoTeepak is a global brand with a local touch that delivers tailor-made productive casing solutions. We understand the needs of our customers and nurture long-lasting mutually beneficial and rewarding relationships.
The Technical Service Manager works independently as a key resource to both internal and external customers for optimal use of our products in the end user production processes. This position coordinates testing and problem resolution activities with customers including coordination of production and/or product testing schedules.
Essential Functions:
Resolve casing, packaging or processing issues by working with suppliers to assist in producing a product line that meets customer needs. Troubleshoot customer process issues; and develop new processing procedures to ensure the most effective use of ViskoTeepak products.
Works with internal functional groups such as Operations, Product Management and Quality Management to define product specifications that will ensure customer’s most successful use of VT products.
Coordinate with Product Managers in support of problem resolution, field trials and customer start-up. Manage the technical service requirements for assigned customer base and prospective accounts with the Technical Service function. Performs scheduling of these activities directly with customers. Provide customer training in the proper use of VT products.
Works with the sales and product management teams to prioritize and execute product qualifications and improvement opportunities. Manage and lead the product qualification process, including managing the process of ordering the proper materials and creating the proper parts for successful customer testing. Provide operations, sales and product management with prospecting, market intelligence and competitor information.
Develop case studies around ViskoTeepak products that highlight features, benefits, and performance of the ViskoTeepak brand. Train sales in the proper use of these tools for use in customer presentations.
Network with industry technical contacts and equipment/supply vendors to incorporate best practices and initiate and lead innovative changes.
Manage accounts and build new relationships by providing technical services on a scheduled basis that corresponds to account priority. Create and maintain customer relationships. While working at customer facilities, identify potential new opportunities and work with the sales team to add these to the sales opportunity pipeline. Maintain an active pipeline of technical related projects with customers that will enhance the selling process within VT.
Perform customer audits for the purpose of identifying all casing and packaging materials used by a customer and then creating a report for the Sales Manager outlining the products used and the recommended VT product for each identified application.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Meat Science or Food Science or concentration in Animal Food Processins or similar is highly preferred but will consider others.
Candidates residing in the East, Northeast or Northern Midwest region are preferred.
Good understanding of the meat processing and/or food packaging business and local industry.
Be a proactive self-starter, possessing a strong work ethic and high level of integrity.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Acrobat and ERP systems.
Strong organizational, problem-solving and interpersonal skills to effectively grow and manage business growth. Strong understanding of food casings, film and shrink bag products utilized within targeted markets for ViskoTeepak products.
Strong understanding of related packaging equipment utilized in conjunction with ViskoTeepak products.
Effective project management skills.
Ability to travel to customer locations and/or other industry related locations with up to 80% weekly travel.
Physical Requirements:
This position may require long periods of standing and frequent walking.
This position may require long periods of working in cold temperatures.
The ability to sit for long periods of time for meetings and travel is also required.
ViskoTeepak is a world leader in sales and manufacturing of cellulose, fibrous and plastic casings for the food industry. With our 6 manufacturing and converting plants and our 5 sales offices around the world we employ around 1,100 people. ViskoTeepak’s core values are Trust, Ambition & Fun. Trust is built on credibility, being fair and treating each other with respect. We earn trust by delivering on our promises, which is particularly true for how we manage our business and our people. We have a strong desire to be the best and want to be Ambitious on our road to success. That is why we will walk the extra mile to help our customers and partners to succeed in their business. Fun is created by being successful in achieving your goals and by working with a team of people that you trust and feel connected to. It creates the energy that we need for taking on the next challenge!