About the position
The Learning Environment Furniture Sales Specialist (LES) plays a crucial role in the sales team at School Specialty, focusing on creating and promoting 21st Century Learning Environments. This remote position, based in the Dallas, TX area, requires a deep understanding of the company's extensive range of products, including furniture, equipment, educational technology, and proprietary safety and security solutions. The primary goal of the LES is to assess customer needs and provide tailored solutions that not only drive sales growth but also strengthen customer relationships. The role emphasizes collaboration within the sales team, ensuring that all members work together to meet or exceed sales forecasts. In this position, the LES will manage sales opportunities from identification through post-sale support, leveraging insights into customer needs and market trends. Building and maintaining relationships with key school districts is essential, as the specialist will need to understand customer objectives and present appropriate learning environment solutions. The role also involves utilizing tools such as Stratum and OneForce to maximize effectiveness and address business opportunities. Regular team discussions and updates on funding sources related to learning environment opportunities are expected, along with the management of a travel and entertainment budget. The LES will also engage in ongoing professional development, which includes training on various topics and spending time in fulfillment centers to understand operational flows. This comprehensive approach ensures that the specialist is well-equipped to meet the demands of the role and contribute to the company's mission of transforming classrooms and enhancing student success.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with inside and outside sales teams to represent a comprehensive array of products and services for learning environments.
- Assess customer needs and provide tailored solutions to drive sales growth and strengthen relationships.
- Manage sales opportunities from identification through post-sale support, understanding customer insights and learning environment design.
- Establish and build relationships with key school districts to develop account strategies for growth and execute sales plans.
- Utilize tools and resources effectively to drive business and address opportunities in assigned territories.
- Conduct regular team discussions regarding funding sources and opportunities within assigned territories.
- Review key funding updates and customer stakeholder information regularly.
- Develop and oversee execution of bond/funding strategies within the team sell model.
- Manage travel and entertainment budgets, ensuring alignment with corporate strategy and budget requirements.
- Complete ongoing proficiency and professional development training, including time spent in fulfillment centers.
Requirements
- 2-5 years of successful outside sales experience, preferably in furniture, equipment, or education technology sales within the K-12 market.
- Valid driver's license and insurance with an acceptable driving record.
- 4-year college degree in Business, Marketing, or Education preferred, or equivalent work experience.
Nice-to-haves
- 3-5 years of experience in furniture and equipment project management or sales.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and PowerPoint.
- Experience using CRM systems, particularly SalesForce.com.
- Strong sales process skills, including time management and territory management.
- Knowledge of furniture and equipment products.
- Ability to build networks, including through social media.
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, & Vision plans effective Day 1
- Wellness programs
- Health Savings Accounts
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- 401(k)
- Unlimited PTO for salaried exempt employees
- Education Reimbursement
- Paid Holidays
- Flexible hours during Fall & Winter
- Employee Discounts
