Application & Business Development Manager Automotive EMEA

Company Overview

Trinseo is a global leader in materials, positioned at the crossroads of people, technology, and customer focus. The company excels in producing plastics and latex binders with a culture founded on innovation and passion. Employees thrive in a collaborative environment aimed at solving complex material challenges for customers.

Role Overview

The Automotive Application & Business Development Engineer will spearhead technical collaborations with designated European automotive OEMs to develop and commercialize products utilizing PMMA, PC/ABS, and ABS resins. This position manages projects from initial concept through standard operating procedures, targeting high-growth sectors such as electric vehicle (EV) battery casings and environmentally sustainable components. Serving as the central technical liaison between customers and internal functions, this role oversees a pipeline of opportunities, delivers molding expertise, and contributes strategically to business development efforts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead application development for targeted European OEM clients focusing on EV battery cases, lighting, and eco-friendly interior parts.
• Oversee technical validation and specify PMMA and PC/ABS materials from concept to production launch.
• Build and maintain a strong portfolio of technical application prospects.
• Monitor progress, ensure cross-functional alignment, and maintain accurate records within Salesforce.
• Drive advancement of opportunities and facilitate commercial deal closures in close partnership with Sales.
• Act as a technical partner for OEMs, identifying unmet technical needs and influencing material choices early in design phases.
• Support regional business development with insights derived from account and platform-level engagements.
• Translate OEM requirements into clear technical inputs for Research & Development and Product Management teams.
• Collaborate internally on material improvements, development, and commercialization of next-generation products.
• Lead conversations around sustainable materials solutions including low-carbon, recycled-content, and circular economy offerings.
• Promote sustainable product lines to support OEM environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals and regulatory compliance.

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Science or Engineering disciplines.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience in automotive or plastics sectors, preferably with automotive OEM and Tier-1 supplier exposure.
• Expertise in thermoplastics — notably PMMA, PC/ABS, composites — and experience with injection and compression molding, part design, and tooling validation for automotive applications.
• Proficiency in both English and German languages.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to thrive within diverse, multinational teams.
• Demonstrated customer-facing application development experience, including molding trial support, conducting technical seminars, and tailoring material solutions to customer needs.
• Business development aptitude with skills in negotiation, opportunity management, and fostering account growth.
• Ability to work horizontally with R&D, Product Management, Sales, and Regulatory functions to effectively align priorities.
• In-depth understanding of European and select global OEM platforms and technology trends, with foresight into future application requirements and sustainability drivers.

Equity and Inclusion

Trinseo values diversity and inclusion, recognizing that varied perspectives from all backgrounds enhance creativity and company growth. The firm fosters an equitable hiring process, welcoming applicants from all demographics and experiences to contribute authentically and succeed.