This position is responsible for providing leadership of the Pro business within a designated sales territory by driving sales growth and profitability using appropriate marketing and sales methodologies and building account relationships. Monitor key performance indicators for assigned professional customers, and meet or exceed financial performance to plan by working with the Store Manager and Regional Pro Services Manager. Review pertinent Pro customer satisfaction results to understand customers' perspectives, and use the information to drive local decisions and strategies to improve competitive edge.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
Prospect continuously for new clients through a variety of techniques, including telephone solicitation, in-store sales, and occasional outside sales.
Maintain a current list of all prospects in an electronic database.
Develop pricing and business development strategies in collaboration with and under the direction of company and/or location management.
Work with company sales, operations, and marketing departments to focus sales efforts on developed and internet leads and in developing campaigns to maximize sales efforts.
Participate in trade associations, and trade shows and assist in other promotional efforts.
Analyze the local market to identify market opportunities, prospective companies, and associated buyers.
Follow up on referrals and self-generated leads to identify buyer influences and any timing issues, monitor prospects' contract calendars, and prepare reports on the status of leads and other reports as required.
Plan prospect visits with appropriate operations personnel, such as the Regional Pro Service Manager or Chief Executive Merchant.
Make sales presentations to prospective customers.
Solicit orders and process approved services to achieve sales goals.
Meet regularly with new clients to assess their level of satisfaction with services and to develop a list of strong referrals.
Develop and submit proposals and responses to RFQs and RFPs issued by prospective clients after obtaining pricing and specifications approval from management as appropriate.
Enhance and maintain business development skills through participating in a variety of training programs as assigned.
MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Three years of outside sales experience (Retail industry preferred)
Demonstrated skills in the areas of sales and business development
Ability to analyze sales data, develop recommendations and solutions
Excellent planning, organizational, and time management skills
Ability to interact effectively at all levels and across diverse cultures
Persuasive communication skills (oral and written) and be able to deliver "executive-level" presentations
Ability to be an effective team member and handle project assignments responsibly
Must possess excellent customer service skills and be results-oriented
Ability to multi-task, meet deadlines, and work in a fast-paced environment