What are the responsibilities and job description for the Outside Sales Specialist – Waynesville, NC position at Smoky Mountain Farmers Cooperative?
LOCATION: 4082 Jonathan Creek Road, Waynesville, NC 27885
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Smoky Mountain Farmers Co-op is seeking a motivated Outside Sales Specialist to join our team in Waynesville, NC. This role focuses on building strong relationships with local farmers, producers, and municipalities to provide tailored solutions to fit their needs. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the agricultural industry, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping customers succeed.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Increase sales and profitability for the cooperative through a variety of ag-related products, including feed, seed, fertilizers, fencing, equipment, and farm supplies
- Develop and maintain relationships with local farmers, ranchers, and municipalities. Travel will be required.
- Provide expert advice on products and services to help customers maximize productivity
- Identify customer needs and recommend solutions to improve farm operations
- Generate leads, follow up with prospects, and close sales to meet revenue goals
- Collaborate with in-store staff, coordinators and management to ensure seamless customer service
- Prepare sales presentations, contracts, bids, and proposals
- Stay up to date on industry trends, market conditions, and competitors
- Conduct on-site farm visits, product demonstrations, and customer training
- Maintain accurate records of sales activities and customer interactions
- Maintain and promote a strong collaborative, positive, safety culture and follow all safety policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Attend product training classes and events, as required
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience in agricultural sales, agronomy, or a related field preferred
- Strong knowledge of farming operations, livestock, crops, and ag products
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently as well as with team members to meet sales targets
- Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
- The ability to travel within the sales territory
- Self-motivated with a drive for continuous improvement.
- Professional and courteous in customer interactions.
- Positive attitude and effective communication skills.
- Ability to read, comprehend, and analyze internal reports.
- Capable of following both written and verbal directions.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQURIEMENTS:
- High School Diploma or GED (required)
- Bachelor's or associate’s degree in Ag Business, Ag Sales, Marketing, or a related field (preferred).
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Four to six years of relevant experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. (preferred)
Outside sales experience includes presentations, utilizing persuasive negotiation skills, customer service, conflict resolution, and working independently. - Knowledge of agricultural inputs and crop production systems.
- Proficiency with computer databases, point-of-sale systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to freely move around customer’s operations, equipment, and grounds.
- Ability to repeatedly bend, crouch, kneel, stand, reach, grasp, crawl, walk, lift, push, pull, or climb.
- Ability to operate all equipment safely and properly.
- Ability to lift up-to 50 pounds.