David Graden

About David Graden

Throughout my career, I’ve driven sustainable, profitable growth by focusing on operational excellence, high‑impact customer service, and a deep understanding of both business dynamics and real‑world customer needs. With extensive experience in team leadership, agricultural marketing, global OEM sales, and strategic account development, I’ve worked across North America, Europe, and Asia to deliver measurable results and long‑term value.My expertise spans commercial sales and distribution, business development, technical support, and operational marketing. I have a proven track record leading successful product launches, building pricing strategies, forecasting demand, and developing market intelligence frameworks that guide strategic decision‑making. I routinely conduct competitive analysis and translate insights into actionable campaigns, rebate programs, and growth initiatives that strengthen channel performance.A strong believer in equipping teams for success, I excel in sales enablement—bridging collaboration between territory sales representatives, product groups, and sales leadership to achieve ambitious business objectives. I’m passionate about the agriculture industry, committed to delivering solutions that improve equipment performance, and dedicated to helping customers, partners, and colleagues succeed.

Experience

1. Strategic Business Development Manager

   Michelin

   Oct 2025 — Present · US

   As Michelin’s Strategic Business Development Manager for Agriculture in North America, I lead the strategic direction, growth initiatives, and performance of our Agriculture tire sales organization across the U.S. and Canada. My role centers on driving long‑term value for Michelin, our dealer network, OEM partners, and the large‑scale farming operations that rely on our solutions to maximize efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.I mentor and develop a geographically dispersed team of Agriculture Tire Account Executives, ensuring they have the tools, support, and strategic guidance needed to exceed sales objectives. I am deeply engaged in identifying and securing major strategic accounts—including large corporate farms and key industry influencers—while building Michelin’s presence with small OEMs and mounted‑wheel suppliers across the region.Working closely with Michelin’s North American Director of Ag Replacement Tires and cross‑functional leadership, I co‑create sales programs, campaigns, and performance KPIs that align with both regional priorities and Michelin’s global Ag strategy. My work includes evaluating market trends, competitive shifts, and customer needs to shape proactive business development plans and uncover new growth opportunities.A core part of my mission is fostering strong, long‑term relationships with dealers, OEMs, and large farming enterprises, ensuring Michelin remains their trusted partner in equipment performance and operational success. I also take a data‑driven approach to performance tracking, leveraging KPIs and analytics to continuously enhance team effectiveness and overall market impact.Passionate about agriculture, equipment performance, and delivering measurable value to growers, I’m committed to helping Michelin lead the industry with innovative, durable, and high‑performance tire solutions that keep North America’s farms moving forward.

Education

• Winthrop University

  Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Business Administration and Management, General

  2002 — 2005

Skills

• Sales Operations
• Training
• New Business Development
• Pricing
• Sales
• Marketing Strategy
• Account Management
• Retail
• Inventory Management
• Sales Management
• Negotiation
• Program Management
• Tires
• Management
• Profit
• Analysis
• Forecasting
• Leadership
• Sales Process