Director of Sales – (Metal Forming & Laser Cutting) - Chicago, Illinois
Location: Hybrid in Chicago, Illinois, United States
Employment type: Full-time
Salary: $150,000 - $200,000 per year
Posted: 3 months ago
Why This Role Matters
This role drives the company’s long-term revenue growth and market positioning within the sheet metal fabrication, metal forming, and laser cutting industries. The Director of Sales owns commercial strategy, team performance, and strategic account development across a complex capital equipment portfolio. Success in this position directly impacts market share expansion, profitability, and sustained competitive advantage in core manufacturing segments.
Chicago, IL (Northwest Suburbs / Airport Area) - Hybrid or Remote (based on location)
~50% Travel Required
How You'll Contribute
Strategic Sales Leadership
Design and execute multi-year sales strategy for metal forming and laser cutting machinery
Own revenue, margin, and booking targets
Lead forecasting, pipeline discipline, and territory planning
Partner with executive leadership on pricing and go-to-market strategy
Commercial Execution
Lead complex capital equipment sales cycles
Drive solution-based selling focused on automation and ROI
Support key accounts and distributor partnerships
Guide strategy based on productivity, uptime, and TCO drivers
Sales Team Leadership
Lead and develop regional sales managers
Drive accountability and performance metrics
Elevate consultative and technical selling capabilities
Build a high-performance culture
Market & Industry Presence
Monitor market trends and competitive landscape
Represent company at trade shows and industry events
Strengthen brand positioning within manufacturing sectors
What Makes You a Great Fit
10+ years of sales experience in metal fabrication equipment, metal forming machinery, or laser cutting systems
5+ years leading sales teams in capital equipment or industrial machinery
Strong knowledge of OEM, job shop, and industrial distribution models
Proven forecasting, pricing, and margin management skills
Bachelor’s degree required (MBA preferred)
Willingness to travel (~50%)
Perks & Benefits
Salary: $150,000 – $200,000 base + bonus
Medical, Dental, Vision
401(k)
Relocation assistance available
Executive-level strategic influence
Growth-focused leadership environment
Who We Are, What We Stand For
MissionHires is the AI hiring partner of top talent teams. Our platform helps recruiters, agencies, and top companies source, engage with, and evaluate top talent 10 times faster than job boards.
To bridge the gap between companies and passionate talent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Director of Sales role hybrid or remote, and where is it based?
It’s based in Chicago, IL (Northwest Suburbs/Airport Area) and can be hybrid or remote depending on your location.
How much travel is required for this position?
About 50% travel is required.
What is the base salary range and is there a bonus?
The base is $150,000–$200,000 plus a bonus.
Does the company offer relocation assistance for this role?
Yes, paid relocation assistance is available.
What industry experience do I need for this Director of Sales role?
10+ years in metal fabrication equipment, metal forming machinery, or laser cutting systems.
Do I need prior leadership experience managing sales teams?
Yes, 5+ years leading sales teams in capital equipment or industrial machinery.
What kind of customers and channels will I work with?
You’ll engage OEMs, job shops, and industrial distribution models.
What benefits are included?
Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), and executive-level strategic influence in a growth-focused environment.