What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sales Account Manager position at Blue Line Battery?
Reports To: Chief Technology Officer (CTO) & Board of Directors
Job Summary: The Sales Account Manager will manage relationships with large, national-level accounts/clients. This position will establish and manage sales within a network of distributors and direct accounts throughout the U.S. He/she will become a Blue Line product expert to effectively represent our product line and maximize sales. This role will also be responsible for negotiating contracts, resolving account issues, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The following include (but are not limited to) the key responsibilities involved with this role:
- Become an expert in our products. Ability to align and communicate technical, quality and manufacturing specifications to the end user. Products include portable battery packs, lithium-ion batteries for forklifts and automated guided vehicles (AGV’s), etc.
- Manage existing accounts and pursue new opportunities with distribution or create new direct sales growth.
- Manage key account business including Sales, Distribution, Collection and provide a Gold Standard Customer Experience.
- Build long-term partnerships. Conduct national account planning to understand sales goals and develop a plan to ensure distributor needs are met and Blue Line is top of mind.
- Ensure all distributors and dealer accounts are trained to sell Blue Line Battery products.
- Participate in trade shows and conferences. Participate in ride-along training with distribution sales/service support to promote Blue Line and support our customers in the market.
- Recommend and lead implementation of sales and marketing programs.
- Participate in annual forecasting exercises. Relay customer expectations, forecasting and future requirements to operations.
- Work with leadership team to set annual sales and margin goals for each account and deliver expectations.
- Implement company pricing policies along with aiding in A/R when needed.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- 4-year Undergraduate Degree preferred (Engineering, Sales and Marketing, or Business related preferred)
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in customer facing sales and account management.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in the motive equipment and battery industry. (preferably lithium)
- Familiarity with CRM and ERP systems and manufacturing software.
KEY SKILLS:
The following skills are highly desirable for this role, especially in a startup environment.
- Results Oriented – attentive to the results and performance of the plan and a focus on exceeding goals.
- Customer care and growth mindset are key attributes to the position.
- Planning, forecasting, implementing, and thinking big are key attributes to the position.
- Interpersonal Confidence – ability to relate and connect to a diverse group of people; internally, at our customers, community and markets we serve.
- Excellent Oral/Written Communication – Knows how to present ideas effectively and persuasively; has a strong written and verbal presence; can convey concepts in a wide variety of forums.
- Capable of resolving escalating issues arising from operations and requires coordination with other departments including but not limited to service, warranty, product development, accounting, and marketing.
- Desire to work in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment.
- Ability to book and manage travel arrangements.
- A team player and good sport.
- Integrity and Values – Can be trusted to act in a manner that meets Blue Line Battery values.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
- 30%-50% travel required.
- A valid and active driver’s license is required for this position.
Working Environment:
- Office/Manufacturing environment