JOB TITLE: Inside Sales Representative - K12 Segment REPORTS TO: Nutrition Services Supervisor HOURS: Full Time, Exempt; onsite Monday - Friday SALARY: Starting $45,000, dependent on experience
POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for establishing, developing, and nurturing partnerships within the K12 industry. Provide excellent customer service and regulatory support to IFD Prime Vendor Customers. Work collaboratively with all departments of IFD to develop efficiencies, manage inventory, and monitor profitability.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Be proficient in USDA regulations, food safety, and available K12 products; provide guidance and resources as needed.
Work closely with brokers and manufacturer representatives to find solutions that meet Customer needs. Arrange samples and product testing as needed.
Respond in a timely manner to incoming phone and emails correspondence providing a high level of service to our Customers during order placement, needs evaluations and in providing solutions, ensuring a smooth sales process. Provide timely responses to phone and email communications, offering excellent service as you assist Customers with orders, evaluate their needs, and deliver effective solutions.
Act as primary point of contact for requests for information and general follow up activities.
Communicate on a timely basis with Customers and Purchasing personnel to establish and maintain appropriate inventory.
Investigate and resolve Customer concerns and issues.
Work with IFD School Team to enhance IFD’s school presence and reputation in the K12 arena. Participate in statewide SNA trainings and events.
Assist in industry shows and conferences in a professional manner; occasional overnight stays are required.
Develop and execute strategic business plans aimed at improving market penetration, sales growth, and overall profitability.
Become proficient with IFD technology and be a resource for your Customers as needed.
Maintain good working relationships and effective communication with all company personnel.
Communicate weekly with Supervisor to review challenges and opportunities specific to your assigned Customers.
Represent the company in a professional manner, including professional attire.
Adhere to company’s principles and values.
Perform other job-related duties as needed or directed.
WORK RELATIONSHIPS AND SCOPE: Work closely with IFD K12 Customers to meet their needs and expectations, support all accounts in accordance with prescribed procedures and programs. Work with the K12 Team, management, office and warehouse personnel in resolving problems associated with products, service etc. Convey a favorable company image to the trade and general public. All requirements are subject to change over time at the discretion of management, and to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES:
Support assigned K12 Customers while providing superior service to our Customers.
Foster positive, results-oriented relationships with external customers and internal stakeholders, showcasing your ability and determination to achieve objectives and grow sales.
Service all accounts at a high standard, as demonstrated by high Customer satisfaction in assigned territory.
Maintains a positive work environment where staff feel respected, supported and valued.
Accomplish, on an annual basis, further education, training, and enrichment which contributes to the success and continued improvement of the job functions and enhance job performance.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
Exhibit professional, effective written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of proficiency in English.
Work independently and as part of a cohesive team.
Self-motivated and goal oriented.
Professional demeanor in person and on the telephone.
The ability to deal with challenging Customers and to interact with and sell to a wide variety of people.
Foodservice experience is required; K12 Foodservice experience preferred.
Experienced with computers and proficient in the use of Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Accurate data entry skills and familiar with CRM software, including sales dashboards.
Able to handle time pressure, stress, and multi-tasking.
Ability to learn product line and cross-sell additional products.
Ability to help institutions with menu planning, set-up, food costing, and product selection. Provide knowledge on nutrition, food safety, regulations, and inventory control.
High school diploma or equivalent. Ideal candidates will have a college degree or equivalent experience. Sales experience is strongly preferred.
A valid driver’s license and auto insurance are required, according to company standards. Possess reliable transportation, ability to obtain automobile insurance, and hold a valid driver’s license with good driving record.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is normally performed in a typical interior office environment. Some occasional overnight travel may be required. There may be some variation in work hours due to employee shift schedules, special projects, deadlines, and other concerns. Limited physical effort required. Very limited exposure to physical risk. Casual to professional attire as outlined by company policy. Please note: this position is located at our East Ridge Center location; 2266 East Ridge Center, second floor. (enter by Highland Fitness)
