District Sales Manager

Primary Purpose: The purpose of this position is to maximize the sales of Cornelius Seed products to the target market of growers and producers of corn, soybean, alfalfa and grass seed within the defined geography of..

* North Central Illinois

* Northwest Illinois

* West Central (North) Illinois

This Job posting is looking add a District Sales Manager to each region listed above**

Secondary Purpose:To develop an enriched set of sales outlets and venues by which Cornelius Seed products continue to gain market share (sales mix of seed representative recruitment and development along with targeting direct end users.)

Reports To: Vice President of Sales and Marketing

Direct Reports: All sales venues and seed representatives within the outlined geography.

Overview: This position will feature a high-energy individual seeking growth and who enjoys developing a fully capable district. The district contains an established sales base with plenty of growth potential.

Responsibilities

1. Responsible for developing a sales channel (venue) between Cornelius Seed and all farmers in the geographic district in appropriate volumes to exceed annual growth goals.

2. To serve as a direct account developer where sales venues do not exist.

3. To grow the district sales in accordance with the company’s annual growth goals as outlined.

4. Annually assist in district goal development and to develop a district growth plan covering identified sales and marketing plans by sales outlet.

5. Represent maximum product knowledge about features, benefits, agronomic management of each product and proper placement and positioning of each product within the district.

6. To oversee the satisfactory resolution of all customer and sales channel concerns.

7. Maintain a high level of customer service and retention.

8. Project a positive image for the company’s brand including timely professional social media engagement.

9. Promote the brand image and marketing programs through the sales channels.

10. Assist seed representatives and other sales channels in account follow-up to verify account balances are proper and accurate.

11. Assist seed representative and all sales channels in reaching and exceeding sales goals by leading, motivating, and training on a consistent basis.

12. Plan, plant and harvest appropriate numbers of test plots for yield comparisons. Must learn or know planter requirements and weigh wagon requirements.

13. Install signs at plots and fields to promote awareness.

14. Advise the supervisor of market developments in the district that affect sales, personnel and/or image of the company.

15. Assist home office/warehouse in seed delivery and logistics within defined territory. Company truck provided.

16. Implement all brand policies and procedures as outlined by supervisor.

17. Submit all reports as requested by supervisor.

18. Assist in inventory projected needs annually and assume responsibility for selling all projected inventory.

19. Attend and participate in meetings as requested by company management.

20. Turn in monthly expense reports and sales reports as directed.

21. Assist in other management responsibilities such as training new employees, helping conduct meetings and transferring seed as requested by the supervisor.

Qualifications for position:

B.S. or equivalent degree in appropriate agricultural field of practice OR a minimum of four years of successful sales experience in related industry. Excellent communication skills and leadership traits. A “hunter” mentality with strong closing skills who enjoys lead prospecting/generation. Team player. Detail oriented. Exceptional recruiter and presenter of information to audiences. Fundamental knowledge of computer skills and ability to learn. Ability to work required hours and travel. Ability to lift a minimum of 60 lbs. Some overnight travel required. Valid driver’s license.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Cell phone reimbursement
• Company car
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Profit sharing
• Travel reimbursement
• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift

Supplemental pay types:

• Bonus pay

Application Question(s):

• Do you have any experience specific to Agriculture Seed Sales, Chemical/ Fertilizer Sales or Tractor/ Implement sales?
• Do you live within the following districts/ regions for which this position is hiring for (North Central IL, Northwest IL, West Central (North) IL), or are you willing to move to the assigned area?

Experience:

• Agricultural Sales: 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $70,000 - $110,000