Senior Customer Account Specialist – Order Management & Client Relations Lead for brighthush Specialty Chemical Solutions – Driving Customer Success & Operational Excellence
About brighthush
brighthush stands at the forefront of the specialty chemicals industry, transforming raw materials into vibrant, high‑performance solutions that power everything from automotive interiors to next‑generation batteries and household appliances. With a global footprint that spans more than 50 manufacturing sites and sales offices across six continents, brighthush delivers cutting‑edge particle engineering, glass and ceramic science, and color technology to a diverse portfolio of customers. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to enable our partners to create safer, more efficient, and more beautiful products while minimizing material usage and environmental impact.
Founded on a culture of excellence, customer focus, and integrity, brighthush is guided by four core values: Winning with Customers, Striving for Excellence, Championing People, and Doing the Right Thing. These principles shape every interaction—from the first customer call to the final delivery of a high‑performance coating—and they are the bedrock of our reputation for reliability and innovation.
As a privately‑owned company backed by a leading U.S. private equity firm, brighthush enjoys the stability and strategic focus needed to invest in breakthrough technologies, talent development, and sustainable growth. We are committed to creating a workplace where curiosity thrives, collaboration is the norm, and every employee has the opportunity to shape the future of materials science.
About the Role
We are looking for a highly motivated Senior Customer Account Specialist to join our dynamic team in Quincy, IL. Reporting directly to the Customer Account Manager, you will serve as the primary advocate for assigned customer accounts, ensuring seamless order entry, accurate fulfillment, and exceptional service. This hybrid role blends remote work flexibility with on‑site collaboration, requiring a self‑starter who excels in time management, cross‑functional coordination, and proactive communication.
In this role, you will become the linchpin that connects our customers, sales, production, and logistics teams. You will own the entire order lifecycle, from entry in the ERP system to final delivery, and you will be the first point of contact for any order‑related inquiries. Your ability to anticipate customer needs, resolve issues quickly, and continuously improve processes will directly impact customer satisfaction and our bottom line.
Key Responsibilities
- Customer Relationship Management: Act as the main point of contact for assigned accounts, building trust through proactive communication, timely updates, and responsive problem‑solving.
- Order Lifecycle Management: Oversee the entire order process—from entry in the ERP system to final delivery—ensuring accuracy in pricing, quantities, shipping instructions, and delivery requirements.
- Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Partner with Sales, Production, Operations, Planning, Supply Chain, Shipping, Logistics, and Finance teams to synchronize schedules, resolve bottlenecks, and maintain a smooth flow of information.
- Issue Resolution: Investigate and resolve customer concerns related to orders, shipments, invoices, returns, and product availability, escalating complex issues as needed.
- Documentation & Reporting: Maintain meticulous records of customer interactions, order status, and issue resolution; generate reports to support performance metrics and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to enhance customer service processes, operational efficiency, and overall customer experience.
- Compliance & Quality Assurance: Ensure adherence to company policies, regulatory requirements, and safety procedures, fostering a safe and compliant work environment.
- Customer Feedback Loop: Capture and analyze customer feedback to identify trends, recommend product or process enhancements, and support the development of new solutions.
- Team Leadership (Optional): Mentor junior team members, share best practices, and contribute to a culture of continuous learning.
Essential Qualifications
- Associate degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Customer Service, or a related field (Bachelor’s preferred).
- Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in customer service, account management, order processing, or logistics coordination.
- Experience in a manufacturing, chemical, industrial, or distribution setting is highly desirable.
- Proficiency with ERP systems for order entry and account management.
- Advanced computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong analytical mindset and ability to interpret data to drive decisions.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a professional, customer‑focused demeanor.
- Exceptional organizational and time‑management abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with ERP platforms such as IFS and quality management tools like Qualtrax.
- Strong self‑motivation and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Experience with cross‑functional project management and process improvement initiatives.
- Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
- Team player who thrives in a remote or hybrid work environment.
- Proven initiative, problem‑solving skills, and a track record of delivering results.
Skills & Competencies
- Customer‑centric mindset with a passion for delivering outstanding service.
- Analytical thinking and data‑driven decision making.
- Strong negotiation and conflict‑resolution skills.
- Adaptability to changing priorities and fast‑paced environments.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
- Proficiency in using collaboration tools such as Teams, SharePoint, and project management software.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
Career Growth & Learning Opportunities
At brighthush, your career trajectory is supported by a comprehensive learning ecosystem. You will have access to:
- Industry‑leading training programs in supply chain management, chemical safety, and customer relationship excellence.
- Mentorship from senior leaders across Sales, Operations, and Finance.
- Opportunities to lead cross‑functional projects that drive process innovation.
- Clear pathways to advance into senior account management, operations leadership, or strategic supply chain roles.
- Regular performance reviews that focus on skill development and career aspirations.
- Access to a digital learning portal with courses on emerging technologies, leadership, and soft skills.
Work Environment & Culture
Our hybrid model blends the flexibility of remote work with the collaboration of on‑site teams. You will enjoy:
- Modern, ergonomic workstations equipped with the latest technology.
- Inclusive, diverse, and supportive culture that values every voice.
- Regular team‑building events, both virtual and in‑person.
- Open communication channels with leadership and peers.
- A commitment to work‑life balance, with flexible scheduling and generous paid time off.
- Employee resource groups that celebrate diversity and foster community.
- Annual company retreats that reinforce our shared vision and values.
Compensation & Benefits
We offer a competitive total rewards package that includes:
- Base pay ranging from $18.08 to $22.60 per hour, with potential to reach $24.00 per hour based on experience and performance.
- Variable incentive programs tied to individual and company performance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage.
- Well‑being resources, including wellness programs, mental health support, and employee assistance programs.
- Union benefits governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements.
- Paid parental leave and flexible family‑care options.
- Employee discounts on brighthush products and partner services.
Why Join brighthush?
When you join brighthush, you become part of a forward‑thinking organization that is reshaping the future of materials science. You will:
- Work with cutting‑edge technologies that impact global industries.
- Collaborate with passionate professionals who value innovation and excellence.
- Contribute directly to customer success and business growth.
- Benefit from a culture that rewards initiative, creativity, and continuous improvement.
- Enjoy a supportive environment that nurtures professional development and personal well‑being.
- Be part of a company that invests in sustainability and responsible manufacturing.
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you are a proactive, customer‑focused professional eager to drive success in a dynamic, global specialty chemicals company, we want to hear from you. Bring your expertise, enthusiasm, and commitment to excellence to brighthush, and help us continue to bring color, performance, and vibrancy to life.