Vice President of Sales

PLEASE read the full JD as you MUST have experience in this industry with contacts and be fully networked. This is not an entry into this space but rather an opportunity for the right person to join a flourishing team and drive sales! Deep understanding of the EPE protective packaging foam market, including converters/fabricators, protective packaging design firms, and distributors. Bio-foam experience or knowledge is highly preferred.

Job Title: Sales Leader/CRO/VP Sales

Job Summary:

We seek a dynamic and results-driven Vice President of Sales to lead and manage our sales team with our sales channel partners, drive revenue growth, and expand market share. As the vice president of sales, you will be responsible for developing and executing sales strategies, building and nurturing client and channel partner relationships and fostering a high-performance sales culture. The vice president of sales will also own and drive the company’s revenue – through channel partners – and be responsible for sales forecasting.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage relationships with key US sales Converting/Fabricating, Distributors, and Packaging Design firms.

Interface with partner/channel sales team to help drive sales of all products

Further, define and implement sales motion and help train Partner sales teams and other go-to-market partners to sell products.

Drive top-of-funnel sales engagement activities.

As an early employee and company executive, you will be expected to convert enterprise account opportunities into sales.

Develop and implement effective sales strategies to achieve and exceed revenue targets.

Lead, mentor, and motivate the sales team to maximize their potential and drive results.

Establish and maintain strong relationships with key clients and strategic partners.

Analyze market trends and competitor activities to identify growth opportunities.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align sales efforts with company objectives.

Monitor sales metrics, KPIs, and financial performance to assess and improve sales effectiveness.

Develop and manage the sales budget, forecasting, and sales planning processes.

Continuously assess and improve sales processes and systems to enhance efficiency.

Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices.

Provide regular sales performance reports and updates to the executive team and stakeholders.

Collaborate with executive management on other business development opportunities.

Key team member in helping to define and execute licensing business model

Skills:

1. Deep understanding of the EPE protective packaging foam market, including converters/fabricators, protective packaging design firms, and distributors. Bio-foam experience or knowledge is highly preferred.

1. Leadership: The ability to lead, motivate, and inspire a sales team is fundamental. A VP of sales should set a positive example, provide guidance, and create a culture of excellence and accountability within the sales department.

1. Communication: Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential. A VP of Sales must effectively convey complex ideas, provide clear directions, and listen actively to team members, clients, and stakeholders.

1. Interpersonal Skills: Building and maintaining relationships with clients, partners, and colleagues is critical to the role. Empathy, patience, and the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds are essential.

1. Negotiation: VP Sales professionals often negotiate with clients, vendors, and partners. Skilled negotiators can find win-win solutions and secure favorable deals for their organizations.

1. Strategic Thinking: VP Sales should possess strategic thinking abilities to develop long-term sales strategies, analyze market trends, and identify growth opportunities. The capacity to see the bigger picture and set clear objectives is vital.

1. Problem-Solving: Sales leaders encounter various challenges and obstacles. Strong problem-solving skills enable VP, of Sales to identify issues, develop creative solutions, and make data-driven decisions.

1. Adaptability: The business landscape is constantly changing. VP Sales professionals must be adaptable and open to change, adjusting sales strategies and tactics as market conditions evolve.

1. Emotional Intelligence (EQ): EQ involves recognizing and managing one's emotions and understanding the emotions of others. It's crucial for building rapport, resolving conflicts, and providing effective feedback.

1. Resilience: Sales can be demanding, with periods of rejection and setbacks. A VP of sales should have the resilience to bounce back from disappointments and setbacks and maintain a positive attitude.

1. Empowerment: Successful VP Sales professionals empower their teams by delegating authority, providing support, and fostering a sense of ownership among team members. Empowered teams tend to be more motivated and productive.

1. Time Management: Effective time management skills are crucial for prioritizing tasks, setting goals, and ensuring that the sales team's efforts align with strategic objectives.

1. Conflict Resolution: Conflicts can arise within the sales team or with clients. A VP of sales should be skilled in resolving disputes and maintaining positive relationships.

1. Client Focus: Prioritizing clients' needs and satisfaction is paramount. VP Sales professionals should be dedicated to providing excellent customer service and building long-term client relationships.

1. Networking: Building and maintaining a solid professional network can open doors to new opportunities and partnerships. VP Sales should be skilled networkers who can establish and nurture valuable contacts.

1. Cultural Sensitivity: Cultural sensitivity is essential in global or diverse markets. A VP of sales should be aware of and respectful of cultural differences that may impact business relationships.

Culture fit:

Results-Oriented Culture: A culture that prioritizes setting and achieving sales targets and goals aligns well with the performance-driven nature of the VP Sales role. Such a culture encourages accountability and rewards success.

Customer-Centric Focus: A culture that values customer satisfaction and relationship-building is crucial for a VP of of Sales. This aligns with the need to prioritize client needs and provide excellent service.

Innovation and Adaptability: Sales environments are dynamic, and a culture that encourages innovation and adaptability can help a VP of Sales respond effectively to changing market conditions and emerging trends.

Collaboration and Teamwork: A culture that fosters collaboration among different departments and teams can enhance the VP of Sales' ability to align sales strategies with overall company objectives and leverage the expertise of other departments.

Continuous Learning: A culture that values ongoing learning and professional development is beneficial for a VP or Salesperson who needs to stay updated on industry trends, sales techniques, and best practices.

Meritocracy: A culture that rewards performance, skills, and contributions rather than tenure can motivate the VP of sales, and the sales team to excel and continually improve.

Transparency: A culture of transparency in decision-making and communication can enhance trust within the organization, which is essential for effective sales leadership.

Ethical Values: A culture prioritizing ethics and integrity aligns with the VP Sales role's responsibility to build trust with clients, colleagues, and partners.

Accountability: A culture that holds individuals accountable for their actions and outcomes is important for ensuring that the VP of Sales takes responsibility for meeting targets and objectives.

Inclusivity and Diversity: A culture that embraces diversity and inclusion can lead to a broader perspective on sales strategies and a better understanding of diverse customer bases.

Risk-Taking and Entrepreneurial Spirit: In some organizations, a culture encouraging calculated risk-taking and entrepreneurial thinking can empower a VP or Salesperson to explore new markets and opportunities.

Recognition and Reward: A culture that recognizes and rewards top performers, including the VP of Sales, can motivate and encourage high commitment and dedication.

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: A culture that promotes work-life balance and flexibility can contribute to the well-being of the VP, Sales, and the sales team, helping them maintain productivity and job satisfaction.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Sales, or a related field (MBA preferred).

Proven track record of success in sales leadership roles with a minimum of 10 years of experience.

Demonstrated ability to drive revenue growth and achieve sales targets.

Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.

Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.

Leadership and team-building capabilities, with the ability to inspire and motivate a sales team.

Proficiency in CRM software and sales management tools.

Strategic mindset with a focus on long-term growth and market expansion.

Understanding the EPS/EPE packaging industry is helpful.