Sales Manager, Backflow and Strainers

Scope of Position:

This position is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of a focused sales strategy to achieve both financial and qualitative objectives. The individual will bring a proven track record of building strong industry relationships and will collaborate closely with agents, wholesalers, contractors, engineers and internal partners in Pricing, Logistics, Training, and other departments to drive success.

This role focuses on driving growth in backflow prevention and strainer products through the plumbing wholesale channel, working closely with agents, wholesalers, and contractors to strengthen Watts’ market position and ensure compliance with safety and code requirements.

This role reports to the Director of Sales & Marketing, Canada and does not have direct supervisory responsibilities. It is a hybrid position based in Burlington, ON, with travel requirements of up to 50%, including travel within Canada, to the US, and internationally.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership

• Serve as the voice of the customer and promote a customer-centric mindset.

• Develop and execute national and regional product sales strategies in collaboration with agents in relevant territories.

• Collaborate with contractors and wholesalers to promote compliance-based product adoption and training

• Build long-term customer relationships and strengthen Watts Water Technologies image in the industry.

• Break down internal and external barriers and be a catalyst for platform success.

• Attend trade shows and industry events as required to represent Watts products.

• Share best practices and support strategies to identify, develop, and manage new business channels by leveraging cross-platform synergies.

• Deliver industry-leading customer satisfaction through effective training, coaching, and development of agents and channel partners.

• Maintain professional and technical industry knowledge.

• Anticipate and resolve practical challenges and customer issues.

• Perform other duties as assigned by leadership.

Product Management

• Direct daily and long-term sales operations, including customer relationship management, inventory planning, proposal and quotation development, pricing strategy, and resolution of channel conflicts.

• Drive pricing initiatives by collaborating with product management and providing relevant market intelligence.

• Manage a diverse portfolio of mature product lines and support the launch of smart and connected solutions.

• Work through the full value chain to improve forecast accuracy and fill rates.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; an equivalent combination of education and professional experience will also be considered

• 7+ years of progressive sales experience, preferably within plumbing wholesale, manufacturing, or related industries.

• Proven business development skills with a track record of driving growth and maintaining strong professional relationships.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills both verbal and written.

• Demonstrated ability to work both collaboratively as a team player and independently with excellent time management skills.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

• Highly self-motivated, resourceful, and results-oriented, with a passion for sales and growth.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong understanding of the Plumbing Wholesale Channel and the Contractor role.

• Knowledge of plumbing codes, compliance requirements, and backflow prevention standards

General Applicable Company Competencies

• Commitment to Watts’ values of integrity, accountability, continuous improvement and innovation, and transparency.

• Punctuality and dependability.

• Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing work priorities and stressful conditions.

• Adherence to all personnel policies, procedures, and standards of process as implemented by Watts.

• Maintain productive and collaborative relationships with other Watts employees.

• Adherence to Watts’ seven cultural beliefs: Growth Mindset, Customer-Focused Innovation, Constant Communication, Clear Goals, Collaborate Globally, Be Inclusive, and Take Action.

Working Conditions:

While performing the job duties, you will be working in an office environment. You will be required to work in the office at our Burlington location two days per week (Monday, Tuesday) and can work remotely three days per week (Wednesday - Friday).

Physical RequirementsSpecific physical abilities required for this position include, but are not limited to:

• Ability to remain seated at a desk or workstation for extended periods.

• Ability to perform repetitive tasks like typing on a keyboard or using a mouse for extended periods.

• Ability to physically move around the office, organize or transport files, packages, or other office-related materials.

• Ability to read documents, use a computer, and perform data entry tasks.

• Ability to communicate clearly with management and coworkers, particularly in meetings or phone calls.

• Ability to operate standard office equipment such as computers, printers, phones, and copiers.

• Ability to occasionally lift and carry light objects, such as office supplies, documents, or small equipment.