Chris Ibekwe

Head of Sales @ HELM AG | Driving Sustainable Growth in Chemicals

Germany

About

As the Head of Sales and Product Management at HELM AG, a global leader in chemical distribution and marketing, I have over two decades of experience in sales, with a focus on specialty and fine chemicals. I hold a Masters Degree. in Economics and Finance, and have developed strong expertise in key account management, new business development, customer relationship management and product lifecycle management. My mission is to champion digitalization, sustainability and commercial excellence in the chemical industry, by leveraging technology and innovation to create value for our customers, suppliers, and partners. I lead a regional team of marketing and sales professionals, responsible for developing and executing market-driven strategies for various product portfolios, across diverse industries.

Experience

  • Head of Sales and Product Management at HELM AG
    Jul 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 1 mo

  • ChemPoint ()
    • Commercial Manager, EMEA
      Jul 2017 - Jul 2023 · 6 yrs 1 mo

      ChemPoint (- a UnivarSolutions Company) is a technology‑enabled marketing and sales organization specializing in the global distribution of fine and specialty chemicals. Serving key markets including Lubricants & Fuels, Solvents & Acids, Food & Personal Care, Paints, Coatings & Adhesives, and Surfactants & Rheology Modifiers, ChemPoint delivers data‑driven commercial solutions for both suppliers and customers. In my role, I am responsible for developing market‑driven strategies across multiple specialty chemical product portfolios, providing leadership and strategic direction to regional marketing and sales teams. My focus is on delivering sustainable growth through sales expansion, margin optimization, and new application development. I lead product line launches, manage product lifecycle strategies, and conduct competitive and market analysis to identify commercial opportunities and drive long‑term portfolio success.

    • Product Manager, EMEA
      Apr 2015 - Jul 2017 · 2 yrs 4 mos

      Product Manager – Industrial Chemicals Portfolio Product Manager responsible for ChemPoint’s Industrial Chemicals portfolio, including lubricant additives, process fluids, fuels, solvents, dyes, and surfactants. I lead the short‑ and long‑term product line (P&L) strategy, developing clear value propositions that support the execution of go‑to‑market strategies for ChemPoint’s Industrial business unit. I work cross‑functionally with commercial, operations, supply chain, and marketing teams to align strategy, execution, and performance. By maintaining a deep understanding of market dynamics and customer needs, I translate insights into actionable product line strategies that drive profitable growth, portfolio optimization, and long‑term competitiveness.

    • Market Developer
      Jul 2013 - Apr 2015 · 1 yr 10 mos

      I successfully contributed to ChemPoint's growth by leading initiatives in market development and customer engagement. • Managed the full sales cycle, ensuring seamless transitions from opportunity identification to closing deals. • Conducted in-depth analysis of market trends, customer needs, and competitive landscapes to inform strategic decisions. • Developed targeted technical campaigns that enhanced customer acquisition and showcased product value propositions.

  • Sales Executive (T.P 24 NL) at Adobe
    Feb 2010 - Jun 2012 · 2 yrs 5 mos

    Adobe Systems is one of the world’s leading software companies with a reputation for excellence and a portfolio of many of the world’s most recognisable brands. Created B2B & B2C user relationships to win new and repeat business for Adobe Software Suites. Coordinate the provision of technical help and first level service to end users and resellers within Europe Monthly and quarterly targeted

  • Sales Associate at T-Mobile
    Nov 2007 - Jan 2010 · 2 yrs 3 mos

    T-Mobile is a hugely successful and reputable telecommunications company, with an ambition to give their customers instant access to the widest coverage and smartest support in the market. Presented and demonstrated products and services to target audience. Generated new business through direct sales (B2B & B2C) and in-store promotions.

  • Sales Professional at Various Companies
    May 2004 - Nov 2007 · 3 yrs 7 mos