Branded Solutions Specialist

The Branded Solutions Specialist will drive Category Sales strategies and growth. The role will bring a strategic and working knowledge of the Branded Solutions industry including customized logoed merchandise/apparel which enhances brand visibility, employee engagement & customer loyalty. This role has demonstrated industry expertise in sourcing, corporate stores, fulfillment to provide strategic brand recognition options for customers. The ideal candidate will understand and analyze market trends to select top-performing products, inform competitive pricing, and collaborate with Innovative sales teams to drive revenue growth.

Essential Functions:

• Customer Solutions Development and Selling

• Work with management to develop, execute and refine key strategies to drive revenue, improve margins and enhance our overall sales organization.
• Collaborate with Marketing team for Category Promotion and Messaging
• Develop product and program solutions aligned with customer needs
• Work directly with Account Executives, both in the office and in the field, to fully penetrate their existing account base in the category and to capture new accounts.
• Responsible for driving year over year growth of category
• Identify, cultivate & provide relationship management for Strategic Accounts
• Identify, cultivate & provide relationship management for Strategic Vendors
• Meet with customers to determine their needs & engage with team for successful execution
• Maintain proper notes in CRM, Sharepoint and Syncore software systems
• Work closely with the internal support team for Category mentoring and Program/Project execution
• Support all Innovative markets with remote and in person support

• Industry Expertise & Navigation

• Maintain strong relationships with our preferred vendors and identify new vendor partners
• Stay up to date on industry trends
• Attend Industry events
• Promote Brand Promise and Core Values within the department

• Bachelors degree or equivalent preferred
• 10+ plus years of specific category experience, comprehensive knowledge of Promotional Products and Branded Solutions industry, key manufacturers and competitive environment
• Proven successful project management experience
• Proficient with computer programs such as, Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook
• Works well under pressure and achieves deadlines
• Ability to work with detailed information accurately
• Ability to communicate both written and orally
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative, team environment
• Strong organization and prioritization skills; able to plan work efforts to maximize work place efficiency and productivity