Technical Sales Associate

Anstar Ltd; City of London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialty chemicals distributor is seeking a Technical Sales Associate in the UK. This entry-level role requires a strong chemistry background and business acumen to support growth initiatives in various sectors. You'll work to develop customer relationships, identify opportunities, and drive new business. The position offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses and opportunities for career development.

Qualifications

• You have a Chemistry or related science degree (BSc/MSc) and are technically proficient.
• Ability to conduct market analysis and contribute to sales planning.
• Highly proficient with standard business technology and Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Support Anstar with strategies to develop UV-curing and Nutraceuticals business units.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities in the UK and EU.
• Build and maintain relationships with existing customers.

Skills

Strong business acumen

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

High interpersonal competence

Negotiation abilities

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Chemistry or related science degree (BSc/MSc)

Masters/PhD in Chemistry (desirable)

Tools

CRM software

ERP software

Job description

Technical Sales Associate

Salary: £30‑45k+ (base, depending on experience) plus performance & commission-based bonuses

Reports to: Technical Sales Manager

About Anstar

Founded in 2018, Anstar is a dynamic, rapidly growing specialty chemicals distributor headquartered in Leeds, UK. With deep cultural and commercial expertise, we serve as a trusted bridge between Eastern manufacturers and global markets. We have quickly established ourselves as leaders in the UV‑curing sector, achieving significant market share in photoinitiators. Our agile, lean structure prioritises transparency, openness, and a customer‑first approach, driven by ambitious, high‑potential individuals.

Backed by a robust global supply chain, European warehousing, and local support, Anstar provides high‑quality chemical products with unmatched efficiency. We continually build on our core strengths and explore new market opportunities aligned with our expertise.

Highlights

• We are committed to sustainable business practices, including the supply of bio‑sourced raw materials, aiming for long‑term success while minimising environmental impact.
• Technical excellence is a priority; all our sales personnel possess a strong technical (Chemistry) background, enabling us to offer full‑breadth service.
• We embrace a "Technology First" approach, utilising cutting‑edge software and automation to drive efficiency and scalable growth.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an ambitious individual with a strong chemistry background, sharp commercial acumen, and adept critical thinking abilities to support our growth across our established UV‑curing business, and our emerging venture into food, animal feed, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. This role offers a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment with the opportunity to nurture existing customer relationships, drive new commercial opportunities, and play a pivotal role in expanding a new business unit.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Support Anstar with its strategy to develop both our EMEA UV‑curing and the new Nutraceuticals business units.
• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities, cultivate relationships with potential clients, and negotiate contracts to secure new accounts in the UK and EU.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing customers, understanding their technical and commercial needs, addressing inquiries, and providing exceptional service.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, market dynamics, and competitor activities. Conduct market research and analysis to identify potential growth areas, customer demands, and emerging opportunities.
• Track sales performance against targets, analyse key metrics, and prepare regular reports and forecasts.
• Produce company presentations and assist in presenting to potential and current customers.
• Act as a brand ambassador at industry events, trade shows, and conferences, representing the company professionally, networking with key stakeholders, and promoting the company's products and services.
• Continuously evaluate and improve sales processes, tools, and methodologies to enhance efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction.

Essential requirements for the role:

• You have a Chemistry or related science degree (BSc/ MSc from a reputable university) and are technically proficient in this area.
• Strong business acumen.
• Ability to conduct market analysis and contribute to sales planning.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and have high interpersonal competence and negotiation abilities.
• Proficient in creating and delivering client‑ready presentations.
• You are able to work independently under remote management (e.g., WFH).
• Highly proficient with standard business technology (laptops, phones) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Teams).

Advantageous/desirable section

• Direct experience in B2B technical sales, with a proven track record and technical background in specialty chemical industries.
• Masters/ PhD in Chemistry.
• Proficiency with CRM and ERP software.

The interview process will consist of an initial phone call, followed by 3 interview rounds.

Equal Opportunity: Anstar is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Website: www.anstar.com

HQ: Airedale House, 423 Kirkstall Rd, Leeds, LS4 2EW, UK

Founder & Managing Director: Dr Liangyu Hawkes

We look forward to welcoming talented individuals into our dynamic team.

The Anstar Team

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Sales and Business Development

Industries

Chemical Manufacturing, Chemical Raw Materials Manufacturing, Wholesale Chemical and Allied Products