Commercial Director – Large Industries (Southern Africa)

About the role

The Commercial Director for the Large Industry (LI) Business Unit will lead all LI activities across Southern Africa. Reporting to senior leadership, you will shape the commercial strategy, drive profitable growth, and ensure high levels of customer safety, service, and operational excellence.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive commercial strategy aligned with regional and global objectives.
• Lead, motivate and develop the commercial team, including sales, account management and business development staff.
• Identify and secure new long‑term contracts with key industrial customers.
• Manage existing customer relationships to maximise satisfaction, retention and portfolio growth.
• Negotiate complex gas supply, equipment sales and service agreements.
• Conduct market analysis, competitor intelligence and customer segmentation.
• Prepare and manage the commercial budget, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, finance and legal teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Represent Air Liquide Large Industries at industry events and with key stakeholders.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering or related field; MBA highly preferred.
• 10‑15 years of progressive commercial experience in industrial gas, energy or chemical sectors.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership role with a proven record of sales growth.
• Extensive experience negotiating long‑term B2B contracts with large industrial clients.
• Strong knowledge of the South African industrial market.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation and interpersonal abilities.

Required skills