Key Accounts Executive

About the Role

The Key Accounts Executive is responsible for driving sales growth by expanding relationships with existing customers and identifying cross-sell and upsell opportunities within key account locations. This role involves managing portfolios with potential revenues ranging from $25K to $250K, emphasizing exceptional account management, collaboration, and execution of strategic sales strategies to acquire, develop, and retain clients in designated territories.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and strengthen relationships with customers at both functional and executive levels.
• Develop and execute strategies to deepen penetration within accounts, expand revenue opportunities, and achieve sales and retention targets.
• Serve as a trusted advisor by delivering tailored, value-driven solutions that address customer priorities.
• Lead the implementation of major company programs and initiatives within assigned accounts.
• Process orders, scan and verify incoming shipments, stock inventory, and manage returns.
• Leverage CRM and account management systems to track sales activity, analyze trends, and ensure accurate forecasting and reporting.
• Partner with internal teams to deliver operational excellence and exceed customer expectations.
• Drive the setup and optimization of vending and VMI services at new or existing account locations.
• Collaborate with sales management to design competitive pricing strategies for non-contract customers.
• Monitor market trends, competitors, and emerging technologies to provide customers with forward-looking solutions.
• Prepare and submit timely, accurate sales reports.
• Secure and submit customer orders for processing utilizing ordering technology.
• Contribute to a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and initiatives.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High school diploma or GED required; a 2-4 year college degree preferred.
• 2-3 years of outside direct sales/service experience preferred but not required.
• Industry experience (e.g., fasteners, chemicals, industrial maintenance supplies, electrical, food processing, manufacturing) preferred.
• Strong technical aptitude with ability to read and analyze technical materials.
• Demonstrated ability to resolve problems, develop action plans, and drive results.
• Excellent communication, presentation, listening, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and email.
• Able to adapt to PC-based order systems and handheld scanning devices.
• Strong organizational, time management, and basic math skills.
• High degree of integrity and ability to build long-term customer relationships.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and insurance as required by state law.
• Ability to work from a home office with personal computer and internet access.
• Capable of driving up to several hours per day to customer location(s) within an assigned territory or region.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks (walking, bending, standing for long periods).
• Willingness to comply with customer safety and PPE protocols.
• This position may require access to International Traffic in Arms Regulations Information (ITAR) and/or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2-3 years of outside direct sales/service experience preferred but not required.
• Industry experience preferred.
• Strong technical aptitude.
• Problem-solving and results-driving abilities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, listening, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and email.
• Adaptability to PC-based order systems and handheld scanning devices.
• Strong organizational, time management, and basic math skills.
• High degree of integrity.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and insurance.
• Ability to work from a home office with personal computer and internet access.
• Capable of extensive driving within a territory or region.
• Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Willingness to comply with customer safety and PPE protocols.