Area Sales Manager

San Antonio, Tx

$60,000 - $75,000 + Commission and bonus

Our Client is seeking a motivated and experienced Area Sales Manager with 3-6 years of proven success in selling furniture to private schools and independent school districts. This role will oversee sales operations within a designated region, driving revenue growth by building strong relationships with educational institutions, understanding their unique needs, and delivering tailored furniture solutions. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with excellent interpersonal skills, ready to expand our market presence in the education sector.

Responsibilities:

• Sales Leadership: Manage and grow furniture sales within an assigned geographic area, targeting private schools and independent school districts, to meet or exceed annual sales targets.
• Client Relationships: Build and maintain long-term relationships with school administrators, procurement officers, and decision-makers, acting as a trusted advisor to understand and fulfill their furniture needs.
• Market Development: Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the education sector, expanding the customer base through proactive outreach, networking, and lead generation.
• Solution Selling: Present and demonstrate furniture products (e.g., classroom desks, seating, storage, cafeteria solutions) tailored to the specific requirements of private schools and districts, emphasizing durability, safety, and functionality.
• Proposal and Bidding: Prepare detailed sales proposals, respond to RFPs, and navigate procurement processes common in educational institutions, ensuring competitive pricing and compliance with budget constraints.
• Account Management: Oversee the full sales cycle, from initial contact to post-sale follow-up, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business while managing existing accounts.
• Market Intelligence: Monitor industry trends, competitor offerings, and school district purchasing cycles to refine sales strategies and maintain a competitive edge.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the marketing team to develop targeted campaigns and with the logistics team to ensure timely delivery and installation of furniture orders.
• Reporting: Track sales performance, maintain accurate records in CRM software, and provide regular updates to senior management on pipeline, wins, and market feedback.
• Travel: Conduct regular site visits and attend education-related trade shows or conferences within the region to promote products and secure new contracts.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, or a related field preferred.
• Experience:3-6 years of direct sales experience, specifically selling furniture to private schools and independent school districts.
• Demonstrated success in meeting or exceeding sales quotas in the education market.
• Skills: Strong understanding of school furniture needs (e.g., ergonomic design, safety standards).
• Proficiency in CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent negotiation, presentation, and closing skills.
• Ability to interpret school budgets and purchasing processes.
• Attributes: Self-starter with a results-driven mindset and strong organizational skills.
• Personable and outgoing, with the ability to connect with diverse stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel regularly within the assigned region (valid driver’s license required).